05-12-09 CM Agenda Packet
AGENDA
Council/Manager Meeting
Golden Valley City Hall
7800 Golden Valley Road
Council Conference Room
May 12, 2009
6:30 pm
1. Proposed Ordinance Amendment - Section 4.20 - 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District
Signage
2. Proposed Ordinance Amendment - Section 4.31 - Stormwater Management
3. 2009 Pavement Management: Request for Secondary Driveway
4. Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Council/Manager meetings have an informal, discussion-style format and are designed
for the Council to obtain background information, consider policy alternatives, and
provide general directions to staff. No formal actions are taken at these meetings. The
public is invited to attend Council/Manager meetings and listen to the discussion; public
participation is allowed by invitation of the City Council.
alley
Memorandum
Planning
763-593-8095/763-593-8109 (fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
May 12, 2009
Agenda Item
1. Proposed Ordinance Amendment - 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District Signage
Prepared By
Joe Hogeboom, City Planner
Summary
The 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District, created in 2008, requires that the City's Code (Chapter
4.20) be modified in order to regulate signage for the wide array of land uses expected to
occur in the district.
In a coordinated effort, the Planning Department, the Inspections Department, and Thibault
Associates have developed a proposed ordinance which clearly asserts the City's
expectations and requirements for all signage in the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
Language in this ordinance has been modified to allow staff to better understand and enforce
sign regulations.
Bill Thibault of Thibault and Associates will be present at the Council/Manager meeting to
discuss the implications of the proposed ordinance as well as answer questions from Council
Members.
Attachment
Proposed Ordinance - Amendments to Section 4.20 - Addition of 1-394 Mixed Use District
Signage (8 pages)
Underlined/Overscored Version of Section 4.20: Sign Permits and Regulations (20 pages)
Clean Version of Section 4.20: Sign Permits and Regulations (20 pages)
ORDINANCE NO. ,2ND SERIES
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE CITY CODE
Amendments to Section 4.20 - Addition of 1-394 Mixed Use District Signage
The City Council for the City of Golden Valley hereby ordains as follows:
Section 1. City Code Section 4.20 is amended by adding a new paragraph in
Subdivision 9 as follows:
J. 1-394 .Mixed Use Zoning District. This district has unique requirements
requiring special consideration.
1. Expanded Purpose. The City of Golden Valley has completed a study of
the 1-394 corridor, established a separate zoning district for this corridor
and hereby establishes sign regulations for this special district. The sign
purposes for this district are the following:
a. The sign purposes as contained in Subdivision 1 Purposes.
b. Improve, or at least not detract from, visual coherence and
attractiveness of the corridor.
c. Sign colors and materials shall complement those of the building.
d. Signs shall be visually appealing.
e. Signs are to be pedestrian oriented.
f. Achieve, or at least not detract from, contributing to compatibility
among buildings, streetscape, public views, and spaces.
g. Ensure the city's purposes and objectives of the 1-394 Corridor Study
and the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District are met.
h. Ensure sign areas are calculated and charged as sign area.
2. Signage Plan Required.
a. A signage plan which shows buildings, access, parking, setbacks-open
space, property lines, and the location, size, materials, height,
illumination, if any, of existing and proposed signs and buildings and
other relevant site features must be submitted to the city at the time
of site plan review or consideration for a conditional use permit. If a
site plan review or conditional use permit is not required and a sign
application is submitted, a signage plan must also be submitted unless
a signage plan approved by the city is on file.
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b. To be approved, the Signage Plan must be found to meet the Purpose
clause, the Expanded Purpose clause and all other requirements of the
sign ordinance applicable to the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
c. To be approved, the area of all signs must be calculated and charged
as sign area unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
d. Upon approval of the signage plan by the city, said signage plan shall
govern the location, type and size of signs until and unless the site
plan is amended with a new and approved signage plan which is in
conformance with the sign ordinance in effect at the time of
submission of the amended plan.
e. Prior to constructing a sign, a sign permit must be obtained and a
signage plan approved unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
3. The following signs are permitted within the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning
District:
a. Temporary signs.
1. Real estate signs. The following limits apply:
I Single-use
Mixed-use
132 s:. ft.
64 s . ft.
2. Construction signs. The following limits apply:
I Single-use I. 120 s~. ft.
Mixed-use .. 120 s_' ft
3. Garage Sale signs for single-use Multiple Dwellings.
4. Other temporary signs, banners and inflatables as regulated in
Subdivision 10.
b. Permanent signs:
1. Maximum Total Sign Area.
a.) The maximum total sign area allowed includes the area of all
signs as defined by Subdivision W, provided however, window
signs are included as sign area, as described in Subdivision
9(J)(3)(B)(9).
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b.) The maximum total sign area allowed is based on use and other
factors. Three (3) use categories are established: Single Use
Residential, Single Use Non-Residential, and Mixed Uses. The
following limits apply:
Maximum Total Sign
Area
1 s . ft. er dwellin
50 s . ft.
Single Use Non-
Residential
(Includes single use
commercial, office, hotel,
institutional, and
industrial/light industrial
uses)
Parcel Size or Floor Area
o to 1 acre or floor area of
o to 15 000 r0555 . ft.
> 1 to 3 acres or floor area of
> 15 to45 000 r055 5 . ft.
>3 to 5 acres or floor area of
>45 to 75 000 r05S 5 . ft.
>5 acres or floor area of
> 75 000 r0555 . ft.
Mixed Uses
Parcel Size or Floor Area
3
Maximum Total Si n Area
1-394 Mixed Use Zonin District
Subdistrict Subdistrict Subdistrict
ABC
Low Rise - up Mid Rise - up High Rise - up
to 3 stories to 6 stories to 10 stories
1005 .ft 1205 .ft 1505 . ft.
1205 . ft. 1505 . ft. 2005 . ft.
2005 . ft. 2505 .ft 3005 . ft.
300.5 . ft. 3505 .ft 4005 .ft
Maximum Total Si n Area
1-394 Mixed Use Zonin District
Subdistrict Subdistrict Subdistrict
A B C
Low Rise - up Mid Rise - up High Rise - up to
to 3 stories to 6 stories 10 stories
1505 .ft 1805 .ft 2005 . ft.
2005 . ft. 2505 . ft. 3005 . ft.
2505 . ft. 3005 .ft 400 5 . ft.
500
3505 . ft. 4005 .ft ft
2.) Building Name Signs. If a building is to be named with a sign, the
building may only have one (1) name. If placed on a building wall,
the wall sign must be placed at one of the following locations:
a.)On the ground level.
b.) A wall space contiguous to the ground level and architecturally
designed for the sign to be placed or to be an acceptable area
for the sign.
c.) A suitable wall space at the upper level of the building.
d.) An intermediate level between the ground level and the top
level provided the wall space is architecturally designed for the
sign or found to be an acceptable area for the sign.
3.) Wall Signs. Prohibited location guide. No building name sign, tenant
sign, sign advertising a product or service shall be placed
a.) Over any portion of a window
b.) On or above a roof top
c.) On or above a penthouse, a roof top equipment enclosure or
similar structure
d.)Between the ground level and the uppermost level unless the
sign meets the following guide: The sign is located and
integrated into a framed wall mass where the ratio of the
framed wall space/mass is at least three and one-half (3.5)
times larger than the sign area to be located in the framed wall
space. The framed wall space must be continuous, that is
uninterrupted or unbroken by another wall or similar feature
and void of any windows, doors or similar features.
4.) Free Standing Sign. One (1) free standing sign (pylon or
monument sign) per lot not to exceed twenty-five (25) feet in
height provided the sign is located within four hundred (400) feet
of the outside edge of the 1-394 right-of-way.
5.) Multi-tenant Building Signs. Unless the name of the building, a
sign for a ground level tenant must be located at the ground level.
No upper level tenant shall have a sign on an upper level unless
such sign is the name of the building and meets the building name
and wall sign requirements.
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6.) Projecting Signs. Signs projecting from a wall canopy or awning
may be allowed by the city subject to the following:
a.) The sign must be located at least eight (8) feet above the
walking surface or ground level unless located flat against the
building and the projection is less than six (6) inches if the sign
is attached to a wall.
b.) No part of the projection shall be closer than one (1) foot from
the curb line projected vertically.
c.) The property owner may be required to obtain a license from
the city or to execute an agreement with the city governing use,
maintenance and other factors.
7.) Awning - Canopy sign limits
a.) No awning or canopy sign is allowed to extend to a height
greater than necessary to cover the door, window or opening it
is covering on the first or ground level. No awning or canopy
above the first or ground level shall include a sign.
b.) No sign on a canopy or awning shall extend into a band along
the outside edges of the canopy or awning with the band width
equal to at least ten percent (10%) of width along the width
dimension and ten percent (10%) along the length dimension.
8.) Window Signs. Window signs on a site redeveloped or a building
substantially remodeled after December 31, 2009, shall be charged
as sign area. (Consultant's note: Other options include charging for
all window signs or charging for all window signs after a specific
date, e.g. December 31, 2010.)
9.) Sign Setbacks.
a.) Free Standing Signs. No portion of an allowed pylon sign or
monument sign shall be located within an easement and shall
meet the following:
Yard Minimum Setback
Front Yard 10 feet
Side Yard 5 feet
Rear Yard 5 feet
b.) Canopies, Awnings and Similar Structures. Signs on canopies,
awnings or similar structures which overhang or extend into the
right-of-way may be allowed through approval of the plan by
the City Council. The property owner may be required to obtain
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a license from the city or to execute an agreement with the city
governing its use, maintenance and other factors.
10. Other Design Requirements in the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
Signs are also required to conform to the following:
a.) Sign Quality - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(E)
b.) Illumination - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(C)
c.) Outdoor Lighting - see Section 11.73
d.) Wall Sign Spacing - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(H)(1)
e.) Temporary Signs, Banners and Inflatables - see 4.20
Subdivision 10
f.)Other application requirements of 4.20 not specifically listed
above
Section 2. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 2(G) Free Standing Sign is hereby
amended to read as follows:
G. Free Standing Sign: A sign placed in the ground and not affixed to any
part of a building. Free standing signs may not exceed twenty five (25) feet
in height and may include pylon or monument signs.
Section 3. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 2(K) Monument Sign is hereby
amended to read as follows:
K. Monument Sign: A freestanding sign not supported by poles or posts
which is architecturally designed and located directly on grade.
Section 4. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 2(R) Pylon Sign is hereby
amended to read as follows:
R. Pylon Sign: A free standing structure with a sign mounted thereon.
Section 5. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 2(W) Sign Surface Area is hereby
amended to read as follows:
w. Surface Area of Sign (Maximum Total Sign Area, Total Sign Area):
The entire area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme
limits of actual sign surface. It does not include any structural elements
outside the limits of such sign and not forming an integral part of the display.
Only one (1) side of a double-faced or V-type (one hundred thirty-five (135)
degree maximum) structure or pylon sign shall be used in computing total
surface area. Only two (2) sides of a triple-faced or quadruple-faced
6
monument sign shall be used in computing total_sign area. If individual
letters are mounted directly on a wall or canopy without a frame, the sign
area shall be the area in square feet of the smallest rectangle enclosing the
sign.
Section 6. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 8(E) Sign Quality is hereby
amended to read as follows:
E. Sign Quality. All signs, including but not limited to wall signs, monument
signs, and pylon signs, shall incorporate materials and colors which are
compatible with the building on the site where the sign is to be located.
Compatible shall include, but is not limited to, materials that are consistent
with the principal architectural features and colors of the building(s) being
identified. All signs shall be of good quality, and shall be designed to include
attractive and tasteful colors and design elements. The layout of the sign shall
give the sign a neat and orderly appearance. At the discretion of the Building
Official or his or her designee, the sign permit may be reviewed by the
Building Board of Review.
Section 7. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 8(F) Sign Setbacks is hereby
amended in the first paragraph to read as follows:
F. Sign Setbacks. Signs other than residential nameplates and neighborhood
identification signs must be entirely located at least ten (10) feet from all
property lines and ten (10) feet from any driveway on the premises on which
the sign is erected and maintained, except as allowed in the 1-394 Mixed Use
Zoning District. The following additional setbacks are required:
Section 8. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 8(G) Streets and Easements is
hereby amended to read as follows:
G. Streets and Easements. No sign other than public signs shall be erected or
placed upon any public street, right-of-way, public easement, public land or
project over public property or public easements, except as allowed in the 1-
394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
Section 9. City Code Section 4.20 Subdivision 8(H)(2) Wall Sign Projection is
hereby amended to read as follows:
2. Sign Projection. No sign may project out more than eighteen (18) inches
from the face of the building to which it is attached, except as allowed in
the 1-394 Mixed-Use Zoning District.
Section 10. Section 4.20 Subdivision 8(1) Window Signs is amended by adding
the following condition:
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3. In the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District, window signs on a site
redeveloped on a building substantially remodeled after December 31,
2009, shall be charged as a sign area.
Section 11. Section 4.20 is amended by deleting Section 4.20 Subdivision
9(H)(3) Exceptions.
Section 12. Section 4.20 Subdivision 12(C) Non-Conforming Signs is amended
by adding the following provision.
C. Signs with a height greater than twenty-five (25) feet allowed by policy
during construction of 1-394 must be removed or made to conform to the
current ordinance if either one (1) or both of the following is proposed:
1) a new sign is required on the pylon, or 2) a new sign of one hundred-
twenty (120) or more square feet is proposed on the property.
Section 13. City Code Chapter 1 entitled "General Provisions and Definitions
Applicable to the Entire City Code Including Penalty for Violation" and Section 4.99
entitled "Violation a Misdemeanor" are hereby adopted in their entirety, by
reference, as though repeated verbatim herein.
Section 14. This Ordinance shall take effect after its publication as required by
law.
Adopted by the City Council this _ day of
, 2009.
IslLinda R. Loomis
Linda R. Loomis, Mayor
ATTEST:
IslSusan M. Virnig
Susan M. Virnig, City Clerk
8
94.20
Section 4.20: Sign Permits and Regulations
Subdivision 1. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to establish minimum sign requirements to protect
and promote the general welfare, health, safety, order and aesthetics within the
City; to permit adequate signs for effective communication; to limit signs to identify
uses and businesses where they are located and to do so in an efficient, effective
and aesthetic manner while maintaining an attractive and appealing appearance
along streets, highways, private and public property, and the air space above and
between developments; and to recognize the need to maintain an attractive and
appealing appearance of property and prevent visual clutter, while at the same time
assuring that the public is not endangered, annoyed or distracted.
Subdivision 2. Definitions
For the purposes of this Section, certain words and terms are defined as follows:
A. Address Sign: A sign consisting of identification numbers only, either in
written or numerical form.
B. Bench Sign: A sign located on the front surface of the back rest of a bench
located on the street or the immediate adjacent property and designed for
seating while waiting at a bus stop or in a public plaza space.
C. Business or Identification Sign: A sign which directs attention to a
business, profession, commodity, service, activity or entertainment which is
conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
D. Construction Sign: A project sign placed at a construction site identifying
the project or the name of the architect, engineer, contractor, financier or
other involved parties.
E. Electronic Sign: An illuminated sign on which such illumination is not kept
stationary or constant in intensity and color at all times when such sign is in
use and which displays a message that changes more than once per 24-hour
period.
F. Flashing Sign: Any illuminated sign or non-illuminated sign, emitting an
intermittent or flashing light or creating the illusion of intermittent or flashing
light by means of animation or other methods.
G. Free Standing Sign: A sign placed in the ground and not affixed to any part
of any building. Pylon signs and ~~onuments signs are examples of
freestanding signs. Free standing signs may not exceed twenty five (25) feet
in height and may include pylon or monument signs.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 1 of 20
94.20
H. Garage Sale Sign: A sign identifying a temporary sale of household items
sold by one private party to another private party. Such items shall be sold
solely for personal use and not for resale.
I. Illuminated Sign: A sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or
outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign.
J. Menu Sign: An exterior freestanding sign advertising products or services of
a business with a drive-through facility.
K. Monument Sign: A freestanding sign not to exceed twelve (12) feet in
height not supported by poles or posts which is architecturally designed and
located directly on grade..!. .,..ith the b<:lse being se'v'enty (70) percent or more
of the gre<:ltest width of the sign <:lnd with the b<:lse integr<:lted with the sign.
L. Name Plate Sign: A sign which states the name or address or both of the
business or occupant of the lot where the sign is placed.
M. Neighborhood Identification Sign: A monument sign identifying a
neighborhood or area.
N. Non-conforming Sign: A sign lawfully existing at the adoption of this
Ordinance but does not conform to its requirements.
O. Portable Sign: A sign not attached permanently to the ground and designed
so as to be movable from one location to another.
P. Private Directional Sign: A non-advertising sign erected on private
property by the owner of the property for purposes of guiding vehicular and
pedestrian traffic.
Q. Public Sign: Any sign defined as a traffic control sign in the Highway Traffic
Regulation Act, any identification sign installed in a public park by a public
authority or any identification, regulatory, warning or other sign approved by
the City for installation on public land.
R. Pylon Sign: A free standing structure which is in excess of twelve (12) feet
in height with a sign mounted thereon.
S. Real Estate Sign: A sign which advertises the development, sale, lease or
rental of land or buildings.
T. Search Light Sign: A temporary sign drawing attention to an event,
activity, or site by concentrating or focusing light rays or beacons to create a
brightly focused light that may rotate, flash, remain steady or some
combination of these.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 2 of 20
~ 4.20
U. Shopping Centers: Any contiguous group of six (6) or more retail stores or
service establishments within the Commercial Zoning district comprising ten
thousand (10,000) or more square feet of floor area which provides off-street
parking utilized in common by patrons, where each tenant is provided direct
access to the parking area by means of an exterior door or exit at ground or
balcony level.
V. Sign: A name, identification, description, display, or illustration, which is
affixed to or represented directly on a building structure, or a tract of land
and which directs attention to an object, product, place, activity, person,
institution, organization, or business located on the same premises. It does
not include any official court or other public notices or directional signs
placed by an authorized government agency, nor does it include the flag,
emblem, or insignia of a nation, political unit, school or religious or service or
fraternal group.
W. Surface Area of Sign (Maximum Total Sign Area. Total Sign Area): The
entire area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits
of actual sign surface. It does not include any structural elements outside the
limits of such sign and not forming an integral part of the display. Only one
(1) side of a double-faced or V-type (one hundred thirty five (135) degree
maximum) structure or pylon sign shall be used in computing total surface
area. Only two (2) sides of a triple-faced or quadruple-faced monument sign
shall be used in computing total sign area. If individual letters are mounted
directly on a wall or canopy without a frame, the sign area shall be the area in
square feet of the smallest rectangles enclosing the sign.
X. Temporary Sign: A sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of
time that is not permanently fixed to the land or a structure.
Y. Wall Sign: A sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of a
building or structure.
Z. Window Sign: A sign placed, mounted or hanging on the outside or inside
surface of a window or any sign placed within a building for the purpose of
being visible from the public right-of-way.
AA. Office/Warehouse Park: Any contiguous group of six (6) or more business
establishments within the Industrial or Light Industrial Zoning District
comprising ten thousand (10,000) or more square feet of floor area which
provides off-street parking utilized in common by patrons, where each tenant
is provided direct access to the parking area by means of an exterior exit
door at ground level.
Subdivision 3. Exempt Signs
The following signs are exempt from certain provisions of this section as provided
below.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 3 of 20
94.20
A. Bench signs. If located on a bench permitted by the City and as defined and
allowed by City Code Section 7.40
B. Menu signs
C. Private Directional signs
D. Public signs
E. Signs on licensed vehicles moved daily
F. Garage Sale signs
G. Temporary signs at athletic events only through December 31, 2006.
Sporting associations who have been permitted to use a city athletic field
may permit (for a fee) only through December 31, 2006, other persons or
entities to place signs to advertise their services or products during athletic
events subject to the following requirements:
1. Signs shall be no more than thirty (30) square feet in size and shall be
made of vinyl or similar soft material;
2. Signs shall be attached to a fence or structure within ten (10) feet of the
playing field, shall be no higher than the fence or structure and shall be
placed so as to be visible to spectators at the event;
3. Signs may be placed on the day of the sporting event and removed that
day after the event is concluded;
4. The sporting association shall be responsible for conformance with this
code provision and for any damage or injuries resulting from the display
of such signs;
5. Such signs shall not be of a political nature nor advertise alcohol, tobacco,
adult entertainment or their use.
Subdivision 4. Prohibited Uses
The following uses are prohibited.
A. Flashing signs and Portable signs
B. Electronic signs having a message that changes more than once per 24-hour
period, except those portions of an electronic sign displaying only the time
and/or temperature. No electronic sign displaying the time and/or
temperature shall blink, flash, or change in any manner whatsoever, except
to display the changing time or temperature. No electronic sign displaying
the time and temperature shall rotate or flash back and forth between the
same.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 4 of 20
94.20
C. Signs placed on rooftops
D. Signs or parts of signs that rotate, move, flutter or which give the appearance of
such action
E. Signs or advertising murals painted directly on a building
F. Signs pa inted or mounted on trees, utility poles, bollards, or other portions of
a property or structure not specifically designed for the display of signs,
except for those window signs where allowed by the Section
G. Signs installed in a way that obstructs clear vision of persons using the
streets or at any location that, because of its position, shape, or color,
interferes with, obstructs the view of, or may be confused with, any
authorized traffic sign, signal, or device. No sign other than Public or
Construction signs, shall be visible from a public street which makes use of
the words "STOP", "LOOK", "DANGER", or any other word, phrase, symbol or
character which may interfere with, mislead, or confuse persons using the
public streets
H. Any sign upon which is stated or depicted any pornographic or obscene
words, conduct, or other matter
I. Any sign relating to adult establishments and accessory uses as defined in
Section 11.50 of this Code unless at the location of such adult establishment
or accessory use and otherwise in conformance with this Section.
J. Signs mounted upon buildings that extend above the roof or parapet wall
level, whichever is higher
Subdivision 5. Permit Exceptions
It is unlawful for any person to erect, construct, repair, resurface, alter or maintain
a sign without first obtaining the applicable permit, except for the following signs:
A. A nameplate not exceeding one (1) square foot in area, and containing only
the name of the resident, or title of person practicing a profession, in the
Residential, Residential R-2 and Multiple Dwelling Zoning District.
B. Real Estate signs pertaining to the lease or sale of real estate containing six
(6) or less square feet.
C. Construction signs advertising the development or improvement of a
property by builder, owner, contractor or other persons furnishing service,
materials or labor, provided such sign is removed when the work is
completed or upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy or completion,
whichever occurs first.
D. Garage sale signs.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 5 of 20
94.20
Subdivision 6. Administration
The Building Official or his or her designee shall administer this Section of the City
Code.
Subdivision 7. Fees
Sign permit fees shall be set by the City Council, adopted by resolution, and
amended from time-to-time.
Subdivision 8. General Regulations
A. Calculation of Sign Area. All signs are included in the calculation of sign area,
except for the following: Address Signs, Construction Signs, Menu Signs not
visible from a right-of-way, Neighborhood Identification Signs, Private
Directional Signs, Real Estate Signs, and Temporary Signs.
B. Free Standing Signs. If there is pedestrian or vehicular traffic that passes
under a free standing sign, eight (8) feet of clearance from basic grade to the
lowest element of the sign shall be required. At the discretion of the Building
Official or his or her designee, a property survey and an engineered plan for
foundations and/or soil tests may be required for freestanding signs.
C. Illumination. Direct rays or glare of light from an illuminated sign shall not be
visible from public rights-of-way or property other than that on which the
illuminated sign is located. Any external source of illumination must be
provided with shields or lenses that concentrate the light onto the sign.
D. Menu Signs. If the name of the business or business logo is included in a
menu sign, the sign area of such name or logo shall be counted as sign area
for determining maximum sign area allowed.
E. Sign Quality. All signs, including but not limited to wall signs, monument
signs, and pylon signs, shall incorporate materials and colors which are
compatible with the building upon "..hich on the site where the sign is to be
located. Compatible shall include, but is not limited to, materials that are
consistent with the principal architectural features and colors of the
building(s) being identified. All signs shall be of good quality, and shall be
designed to include attractive and tasteful colors and design elements. The
layout of the sign shall give the sign a neat and orderly appearance. At the
discretion of the Building Official or his or her designee, the sign permit may
be reviewed by the Building Board of Review.
F. Sig n Setbacks. Signs other than residential nameplates and neighborhood
identification signs must be entirely located at least ten (10) feet from all
property lines and ten (10) feet from any driveway on the premises on which
the sign is erected and maintained, except as allowed in the 1-394 Mixed Use
Zoning District. The following additional setbacks are required:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 6 of 20
94.20
1. Signs must be outside the corner visibility zone, as per the corner
visibility requirements in Chapter 7 of the City Code.
2. Shopping center pylon signs shall have a minimum setback of thirty-five
(35) feet from a street property line.
G. Streets and Easements. No sign other than public signs shall be erected or
placed upon any public street, right-of-way, public easement, public land or
project over public property or public easements"';". except as allowed in the 1-
394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
H. Wall Signs. The following requirements are applicable for all wall signs:
1. Spacing. Signs applied to a building shall be placed as to allow a space
between the end of the sign and the edge of the building or individual
occupancy equal to ten percent (10%) of the linear frontage of the
building or individual occupancy.
2. Sign Projection. No sign may project out more than eighteen (18) inches
from the face of the building to which it is attached. except as allowed in
the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
I. Window Signs. Window sign(s) mounted or hanging on a window surface
must meet the following requirements:
1. No window sign(s) shall occupy more than fifty percent (50%) of the
surface area of a window.
2. If the name of the business or business logo where the sign is located
is included in a window sign, the sign area of such name or logo shall
be counted as sign area for determining maximum sign area allowed.
3. In the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District. window signs on a site
redeveloped or a building substantially remodeled after December 31-
2009. shall be charged as sign area.
J. Garage and Real Estate Sale Signs. Garage and Real Estate sale signs shall
be subject to the following requirements:
1. No resident shall display garage sale signs for more than eight (8) days
per year. Such signs shall not be displayed on more than two (2) non-
continuous occasions per year.
2. All garage sale signs shall clearly identify the address, month, dates or
days of the week of the sale.
3. All signs shall be set back a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the back of
the curb or behind any existing sidewalk, whichever is greater.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 7 of 20
94.20
4. All signs shall be removed by 9 pm on the final day of the sale.
5. No sign shall be:
a. Greater than six (6) square feet in area or three (3) feet in height. The
height of the sign shall be measured from the top of the sign to the
ground.
b. Located on any governmental property, including the street right-of-
way.
c. Placed on vehicles or trailers located on the public street or any other
public or governmental property.
d. Placed on private property other than the sale premises without prior
permission of the property owner.
e. Posted more than one (1) day prior to the sale.
K. Business Closure. If at any time a business or person goes out of business or
permanently ceases to operate as a business, said business or person shall
meet the following requirements:
1. All business signs, except real estate signs, must be removed within thirty
(30) days.
2. All signs remaining after thirty (30) days shall result in a written warning
to the property owner from the Building Official or his/her designee. The
Building Official or designee shall mail such warning to the property owner
using regular U.S. Mail.
3. All signs not removed within thirty-five (35) days after the date of the
Building Official or designee's letter shall be removed by the Building
Official or his/her designee, and any costs associated with said removal
shall be assessed against the property whereupon the sign was located.
Subdivision 9. Regulation by Zoning District
A. General. Signs not specifically permitted in the zoning districts are
prohibited.
B. Residential Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Residential district
shall exceed six (6) feet in height. The following signs are permitted within
the Residential Zoning district:
1. Temporary signs:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 8 of 20
94.20
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed six (6) square feet per street frontage,
nor fifty (50) square feet if more than six (6) lots or more than two (2)
acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign. A sign with a sign area of thirty-two
(32) square feet at each street opening provided the development
contains at least six (6) lots/dwellings.
C. Two Family (R-2) Residential Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Two
Family Residential district shall exceed six (6) feet in height. The following
signs are permitted within the Two Family (R-2) Residential Zoning District:
1. Temporary signs:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed six (6) square feet, nor fifty (50)
square feet if more than six (6) lots or two (2) acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign. Not to exceed a height of six (6) feet
and a sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet provided the
development contains at least six (6) lots/dwellings.
D. Multiple Dwelling Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Multiple
Dwelling District shall exceed eight (8) feet in height. The following signs are
permitted within the Multiple Dwelling Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, nor fifty
(50) square feet if more than six (6) lots or two (2) acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 9 of 20
94.20
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign or Wall sign. Is allowed at a
maximum of fifty (50) square feet of total signs if there are at least six
(6) lots/dwellings.
E. Institutional Zoning District. The following signs are permitted within the
Institutional Zoning District:
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed one hundred percent (100%)
of the permanent sign area allowed. Additional size requirements are as
follows:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed fifty (50) square feet.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet in area.
2. Permanent signs. The total sign area shall not exceed sixty (64) square
feet. The height requirements for permanent signs are as follows:
a. Monument sign. Shall not be higher than twelve (12) feet.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not be higher than twenty-five (25) feet.
F. Business and Professi onal Offices Zoning District. The following signs are
permitted within the Business and Professional Offices Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs: The size shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Monument sign. Shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in height.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not exceed twenty-five (25) feet in height.
3. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
50 s . ft.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 10 of 20
94.20
90 s . ft.
150 s . ft.
G. Commercial Zoning District. The following signs are permitted within the
Commercial Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign: No such sign shall exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
b. Construction sign: The following limits apply:
64 s . ft.
90 s . ft.
100 s . ft.
120 s . ft.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
1 acre
o - 15,000 ross s . ft. 150 s . ft.
1 - 3 acres
15 - 45,000 . ft. 200 s . ft.
3 - 5 acres
45 - 75,000 . ft. 300 s . ft.
Over 5 acres 400 sq. ft.
over 75,000 ross s . ft.
b. Monument sign. Shall not be greater than twelve (12) feet in height.
c. Pylon sign. Shall not be greater than twenty-five (25) feet in height.
d. Shopping Center signage. A shopping center may be allowed one (1)
common pylon sign with a maximum area of two hundred sixty (260)
square feet in addition to the sign area otherwise allowed. Each tenant
shall be allowed two (2) square feet of sign area per foot of lineal
frontage.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 11 of 20
94.20
H. Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts. The following signs are
permitted within the Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts.
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
b. Construction sign. The following limits apply:
2. Permanent signs:
64 s . ft.
90 s . ft.
100 s . ft.
a. Monument sign. Shall not be greater than twelve (12) feet in height.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not be greater than twenty-five (25) feet in height.
c. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
150 sq. ft.
180 sq. ft.
200 sq. ft.
d. Office Warehouse Park signage. An Office Warehouse Park may be
allowed one (1) common sign with a a maximum area of one hundred
eighty (180) square feet in addition to the sign area otherwise allowed.
If the Office Warehouse Park features multiple tenants, each tenant
shall be allowed two (2) square feet of sign area per foot of lineal
frontage.
3. Exceptions:
a. I 394 Zone. Industri;J1 p;Jrccls within six hundred (600) feet of
Interst;Jte 394 ;Jnd its Front;Jge roads sh;J1I be allo'Ned Dddition;J1
signage up to the maximum allO'vved in the Commerci;J1 Zoning District.
1. Planned Unit Development (PUD). Signs for a PUD shall be governed by the
underlying zoning on the property.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 12 of 20
S 4.20
J. 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District. This district has unique requirements
requiring special consideration.
1. Expanded Purpose. The City of Golden Valley has completed a study of
the 1-394 corridor, established a separate zoning district for this corridor
and hereby establishes sign regulations for this special district. The sign
purposes for this district are the following:
5L. The sign purposes as contained in Subdivision 1 Purposes.
.b.... Improve, or at least not detract from, visual coherence and
attractiveness of the corridor.
~ Sign colors and materials shall complement those of the building.
~ Signs shall be visually appealing.
~ Signs are to be pedestrian oriented.
f. Achieve, or at least not detract from, contributing to compatibility
among buildings, streetscape, public views, and spaces.
~ Ensure the city's purposes and objectives of the 1-394 Corridor Study
and the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District are met.
h... Ensure sign areas are calculated and charged as sign area.
2. Signage Plan Required.
~ A signage plan which shows buildings, access, parking, setbacks-open
space, property lines, and the location, size, materials, height,
illumination, if any, of existing and proposed signs and buildings and
other relevant site features must be submitted to the city at the time
of site plan review or consideration for a conditional use permit. If a
site plan review or conditional use permit is not required and a sign
application is submitted, a signage plan must also be submitted unless
a signage plan approved by the city is on file.
b. To be approved, the Signage Plan must be found to meet the Purpose
clause, the Expanded Purpose clause and all other requirements of the
sign ordinance applicable to the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
c. To be approved, the area of all signs must be calculated and charged
as sign area unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
~ Upon approval of the signage plan by the city, said signage plan shall
govern the location, type and size of signs until and unless the site
plan is amended with a new and approved signage plan which is in
Golden Valley City Code
Page 13 of 20
S 4.20
conformance with the sign ordinance in effect at the time of
submission of the amended plan.
~ Prior to constructing a sign, a sign permit must be obtained and a
signage plan approved unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
3. The following signs are permitted within the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning
District:
a. Temporary signs.
1.) Real estate signs. The following limits apply:
I Single-use
Mixed-use
132 s:. ft.
64 s . ft.
2.) Construction signs. The following limits apply:
I Sinqle-use 1120 s:. ft.
Mixed-use 120 s . ft
3.) Garage Sale signs for single-use Multiple Dwellings.
4.) Other temporary signs, banners and infJatables as regulated in
Subdivision 10.
b. Permanent signs:
1.) Maximum Total Sign Area.
a) The maximum total sign area allowed includes the area of all
signs as defined by Subdivision W, provided however, window
signs are included as sign area, as described in Subdivision
9(J)(3)(B)(9).
b)The maximum total sign area allowed is based on use and other
factors. Three (3) use categories are established: Single Use
Residential. Single Use Non-Residential, and Mixed Uses. The
following limits apply:
Maximum Total Sign
Area
1 s . ft. er dwellin
50 s . ft.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 14 of 20
~ 4.20
Mixed Uses
Low Rise - UD Mid Rise - UD Hiah Rise - up
to 3 stories o 6 stories to 1 tries
1005 . ft 1205 .ft 1505 . ft.
1205 . ft. 1505 . ft. 2005 . ft.
2005 . ft. 2505 .ft 3005 . ft.
3005 . ft. 3505 . ft 4005 .ft
Area
Parcel Size or Floor Area Low Rise - UD Mid Rise - up Hiah Rise - UD to
t tories to 6 stories 10 stories
1505 . ft 1805 .ft 2005 . ft.
2005 . ft. 2505 . ft. 3005 . ft.
2505 . ft. 3005 . ft 4005 . ft.
400 5 . ft
2.) Building Name Signs. If a building is to be named with a sign. the
building may only have one (1) name. If placed on a building wall.
the wall sign must be placed at one of the following locations:
a.) On the ground level.
b.) A wall space contiguous to the ground level and architecturally
designed for the sign to be placed or to be an acceptable area
for the sign.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 15 of 20
94.20
c.) A suitable wall space at the upper level of the building.
d.) An intermediate level between the ground level and the top
level provided the wall space is architecturally designed for the
sign or found to be an acceptable area for the sign.
3.) Wall Signs. Prohibited location guide. No building name sign, tenant
sign, sign advertising a product or service shall be placed
a,) Over any portion of a window
b.) On or above a roof top
c.) On or above a penthouse, a roof top equipment enclosure or
similar structure
d.) Between the ground level and the uppermost level unless the
sign meets the following guide: The sign is located and
integrated into a framed wall mass where the ratio of the
framed wall space/mass is at least three and one-half (3.5)
times larger than the sign area to be located in the framed wall
space. The framed wall space must be continuous, that is
uninterrupted or unbroken by another wall or similar feature
and void of any windows, doors or similar features.
4.) Free Standing Sign. One (1) free standing sign (pylon or
monument sign) per lot not to exceed twenty-five (25) feet in
height provided the sign is located within four hundred (400) feet
of the outside edge of the 1-394 right-of-way.
5.) Multi-tenant Building Signs. Unless the name of the building, a sign
for a ground level tenant must be located at the ground level. No
upper level tenant shall have a sign on an upper level unless such
sign is the name of the building and meets the building name and
wall sign requirements.
6.) Projecting Signs. Signs projecting from a wall canopy or awning
may be allowed by the city subject to the following:
a.) The sign must be located at least eight (8) feet above the
walking surface or ground level unless located flat against the
building and the projection is less than six (6) inches if the sign
is attached to a wall.
b.) No part of the projection shall becloser than one (1) foot from
the curb line projected vertically.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 16 of 20
94.20
c.) The Rroperty owner may be required to obtain a license from
the city or to execute an agreement with the city governing use.
maintenance and other factors.
7.)Awning - Canopy sign limits
.9..J. No awning or canopy sign is allowed to extend to a height
greater than necessary to cover the door, window or opening it
is covering on the first or ground level. No awning or canopy
above the first or ground level shall include a sign.
Q.J. No sign on a canopy or awning shall extend into a band along
the outside edges of the canopy or awning with the band width
equal to at least ten percent (10%) of width along the width
dimension and ten percent (10%) along the length dimension.
8.) Window Signs. Window signs on a site redeveloped or a building
substantially remodeled after December 31, 2009, shall be charged
as sign area.
9.) Sign Setbacks.
a.) Free Standing Signs. No portion of an allowed pylon sign or
monument sign shall be located within an easement and shall
meet the following:
.,
Yard Minimum Setback
Front Yard 10 feet
Side Yard 5 feet
Rear Yard 5 feet
b.) Canopies, Awnings and Similar Structures. Signs on canopies,
awnings or similar structures which overhang or extend into the
right-of-way may be allowed through approval of the plan by
the City Council. The property owner may be required to obtain
a license from the city or to execute an agreement with the city
governing its use, maintenance and other factors.
10.) Other Design Requirements in the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
Signs are also required to conform to the following:
a.) Sign Quality - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(E)
b.) Illumination - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(C)
c.) Outdoor lighting - see Section 11. 73
d.) Wall Sign Spacing - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(H)(1)
Golden Valley City Code
Page 17 of 20
~ 4.20
e.) Temporary Signs. Banners and Inflatables - see 4.20
Subdivision 10
f.) Other application requirements of 4.20 not specifically listed
above
Subdivision 10. Temporary Signs, Banners and Inflatables
The use of temporary signs such as banners, pennants, inflatables (including
balloons over eighteen (18) inches in diameter) for advertising temporary sales,
business openings, special events, similar activities or used for other purposes are
limited to the following:
A. Real estate signs are subject to the following requirements: leasing signs
must be removed after initial leasing or within three hundred sixty (360)
days after a certificate of occupancy is issued if involving a new building or a
substantial remodeling. Leasing information integrated into an approved
permanent neighborhood identification sign or monument sign and given the
same architectural treatment using the same materials and design given to
the neighborhood identification or monument sign are not subject to the
removal provisions of this section. No real estate or for sale sign shall remain
on a property longer than one (1) year unless approved by the Building
Official or his or her designee.
B. The maximum duration shall not exceed a total of thirty (30) days in anyone
(1) calendar year. Each property is limited to three (3) occurrences in one
calendar year.
C. An approved permit shall be obtained prior to display of a temporary sign. A
temporary sign displayed without a permit shall be removed and no new
temporary sign shall be allowed nor shall a permit be approved within the
next twelve (12) months.
Subdivision 11. Design and Construction
All signs shall be in compliance with the most currently adopted versions of the
Minnesota State Building Code and the National Electric Safety Code.
Subdivision 12. Non-Conforming Signs
A. General. A non-conforming sign shall not be rebuilt, relocated, altered or
modified in size or height, unless it is made fully conforming with this article.
B. Removal. Except for changing signs, if a face or message on a nonconforming
sign is resurfaced or removed, the entire sign and sign structure must be
removed or made to conform with this article.
C. Signs with a height greater than twenty-five (25) feet allowed by policy
during construction of 1-394 must be removed or made to conform to the
current ordinance if either one (1) or both of the following is proposed: 1) a
Golden Valley City Code
Page 18 of 20
94.20
new sign is required on the pylon, or 2) a new sign of one hundred-twenty
(120) or more square feet is proposed on the property.
Subdivision 13. Maintenance
All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from rust, corrosion loose or flaking
paint, worn or damaged materials or rotted framework or other members, broken
or missing members or missing letters. The premises surrounding all ground signs
shall be maintained in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition free and clear of all
rubbish and weeds.
Subdivision 14. Permit Penalties
Any sign constructed or erected without the required permit shall be subject to
removal, if necessary, or subject to a double fee if in compliance with all other
applicable requirements of this Section.
Subdivision 15. Administrative Citations
A. Administrative citations.
1. A fine for a violation of any provision of this Section may be assessed
through an administrative citation, issued by the City Manager or his/her
designee and payable directly to the City.
2. The Council shall establish by resolution the amount of the fine to be
assessed for all administrative citations. These fines shall not exceed the
maximum penalty for a misdemeanor violation under State law.
3. Payment of any such fine shall not excuse the failure to correct the
violation nor shall it bar further enforcement activity by the City.
4. Any fine paid pursuant to this Section shall be refunded if it is
determined, after an appeal hearing, that there was no violation as
charged in the administrative citation.
5. Payment for any administrative citation shall be due twenty (20) days
after its issuance.
B. Content. All administrative citations shall contain the following:
1. The date of the violation;
2. The address or a definite description of the location where the violation
occu rred ;
3. The name, address, and other identifying information for the person being
cited;
4. The provisions of this Section violated and a description of the violation;
Golden Valley City Code
Page 19 of 20
94.20
5. The fine schedule for the violation;
6. A description of how, when, and where the fine must be paid;
7. A brief description of the appeal process;
8. The name and signature of the citing official.
C. Recovery of fine resulting from administrative citation. Property owners shall
be notified yearly by U.S. Mail of any outstanding administrative citations and
that such citations will be assessed against the property. Thirty (30) days
after mailing such letter, the Clerk shall file any outstanding administrative
citations as special assessments against each such property which shall
become liens on such lots or lands. This shall be an additional remedy and
not in lieu of any other penalty provided for in City Code or state law.
D. Failure to pay administrative citation.
1. Failure to pay any administrative citation shall constitute grounds for
suspending or revoking any license or permit held by the offenders.
2. Failure to pay an administrative citation shall constitute a separate,
additional violation of City Code.
E. Appeals.
1. Right of appeal. Any person aggrieved by an administrative citation may
appeal the administrative citation to the Council. Such appeals must be in
writing, must specify the grounds for the appeal, must be accompanied by
a filing fee, and must be filed with the Clerk within 10 (ten) business days
after service of the administrative citation. The filing fee shall be set by
the Council. Failure to file an appeal shall constitute a waiver of rights to
contest the administrative citation and the imposition of the fine.
2. Decision. Upon at least five (5) business days notice to the appellant of
the time and place for the hearing the appeal, and within thirty (30) days
after said appeal is filed, the Council shall hold a hearing thereon, at
which the applicant may appear and present evidence as to why the
administrative citation, or any portion thereof, should not be issued. The
Council may reverse, modify, or affirm, in whole or in part, the
administrative citation and shall order return of all or part of the filing fee
if the appeal is upheld. The Council may postpone a meeting and hold a
hearing at a later date, not to exceed sixty (60) days after the appeal is
filed, when it is necessary to do so.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 20 of 20
94.20
Section 4.20: Sign Permits and Regulations
Subdivision 1. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to establish minimum sign requirements to protect
and promote the general welfare, health, safety, order and aesthetics within the
City; to permit adequate signs for effective communication; to limit signs to identify
uses and businesses where they are located and to do so in an efficient, effective
and aesthetic manner while maintaining an attractive and appealing appearance
along streets, highways, private and public property, and the air space above and
between developments; and to recognize the need to maintain an attractive and
appealing appearance of property and prevent visual clutter, while at the same time
assuring that the public is not endangered, annoyed or distracted.
Subdivision 2. Definitions
For the purposes of this Section, certain words and terms are defined as follows:
A. Address Sign: A sign consisting of identification numbers only, either in
written or numerical form.
B. Bench Sign: A sign located on the front surface of the back rest of a bench
located on the street or the immediate adjacent property and designed for
seating while waiting at a bus stop or in a public plaza space.
C. Business or Identification Sign: A sign which directs attention to a
business, profession, commodity, service, activity or entertainment which is
conducted, sold or offered upon the premises where such sign is located.
D. Construction Sign: A project sign placed at a construction site identifying
the project or the name of the architect, engineer, contractor, financier or
other involved parties.
E. Electronic Sign: An illuminated sign on which such illumination is not kept
stationary or constant in intensity and color at all times when such sign is in
use and which displays a message that changes more than once per 24-hour
period.
F. Flashing Sign: Any illuminated sign or non-illuminated sign, emitting an
intermittent or flashing light or creating the illusion of intermittent or flashing
light by means of animation or other methods.
G. Free Standing Sign: A sign placed in the ground and not affixed to any part
of any building. Free standing signs may not exceed twenty five (25) feet in
height and may include pylon or monument signs.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 1 of 20
94.20
H. Garage Sale Sign: A sign identifying a temporary sale of household items
sold by one private party to another private party. Such items shall be sold
solely for personal use and not for resale.
I. Illuminated Sign: A sign which has characters, letters, figures, designs or
outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes as a part of the sign.
J. Menu Sign: An exterior freestanding sign advertising products or services of
a business with a drive-through facility.
K. Monument Sign: A freestanding sign not supported by poles or posts which
is architecturally designed and located directly on grade.
L. Name Plate Sign: A sign which states the name or address or both of the
business or occupant of the lot where the sign is placed.
M. Neighborhood Identification Sign: A monument sign identifying a
neighborhood or area.
N. Non-conforming Sign: A sign lawfully existing at the adoption of this
Ordinance but does not conform to its requirements.
O. Portable Sign: A sign not attached permanently to the ground and designed
so as to be movable from one location to another.
P. Private Directional Sign: A non-advertising sign erected on private
property by the owner of the property for purposes of guiding vehicular and
pedestrian traffic.
Q. Public Sign: Any sign defined as a traffic control sign in the Highway Traffic
Regulation Act, any identification sign installed in a public park by a public
authority or any identification, regulatory, warning or other sign approved by
the City for installation on public land.
R. Pylon Sign: A free standing structure with a sign mounted thereon.
S. Real Estate Sign: A sign which advertises the development, sale, lease or
rental of land or buildings.
T. Search Light Sign: A temporary sign drawing attention to an event,
activity ,or site by concentrating or focusing light rays or beacons to create a
brightly focused light that may rotate, flash, remain steady or some
combination of these.
U. Shopping Centers: Any contiguous group of six (6) or more retail stores or
service establishments within the Commercial Zoning district comprising ten
thousand (10,000) or more square feet of floor area which provides off-street
parking utilized in common by patrons, where each tenant is provided direct
Golden Valley City Code
Page 2 of 20
94.20
access to the parking area by means of an exterior door or exit at ground or
balcony level.
V. Sign: A name, identification, description, display, or illustration, which is
affixed to or represented directly on a building structure, or a tract of land
and which directs attention to an object, product, place, activity, person,
institution, organization, or business located on the same premises. It does
not include any official court or other public notices or directional signs
placed by an authorized government agency, nor does it include the flag,
emblem, or insignia of a nation, political unit, school or religious or service or
fraternal group.
W. Surface Area of Sign (Maximum Total Sign Area, Total Sign Area): The
entire area within a single continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits
of actual sign surface. It does not include any structural elements outside the
limits of such sign and not forming an integral part of the display. Only one
(1) side of a double-faced or V-type (one hundred thirty five (135) degree
maximum) structure or pylon sign shall be used in computing total surface
area. Only two (2) sides of a triple-faced or quadruple-faced monument sign
shall be used in computing total sign area. If individual letters are mounted
directly on a wall or canopy without a frame, the sign area shall be the area in
square feet of the smallest rectangles enclosing the sign.
X. Temporary Sign: A sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of
time that is not permanently fixed to the land or a structure.
Y. Wall Sign: A sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of a
building or structure.
Z. Window Sign: A sign placed, mounted or hanging on the outside or inside
surface of a window or any sign placed within a building for the purpose of
being visible from the public right-of-way.
AA. Office/Warehouse Park: Any contiguous group of six (6) or more business
establishments within the Industrial or Light Industrial Zoning District
comprising ten thousand (10,000) or more square feet of floor area which
provides off-street parking utilized in common by patrons, where each tenant
is provided direct access to the parking area by means of an exterior exit
door at ground level.
Subdivision 3. Exempt Signs
The following signs are exempt from certain provisions of this section as provided
below.
A. Bench signs. If located on a bench permitted by the City and as defined and
allowed by City Code Section 7.40
B. Menu signs
Golden Valley City Code
Page 3 of 20
94.20
C. Private Directional signs
D. Public signs
E. Signs on licensed vehicles moved daily
F. Garage Sale signs
G. Temporary signs at athletic events only through December 31, 2006.
Sporting associations who have been permitted to use a city athletic field
may permit (for a fee) only through December 31, 4006, other persons or
entities to place signs to advertise their services or products during athletic
events subject to the following requirements:
1. Signs shall be no more than thirty (30) square feet in size and shall be
made of vinyl or similar soft material;
2. Signs shall be attached to a fence or structure within ten (10) feet of the
playing field, shall be no higher than the fence or structure and shall be
placed so as to be visible to spectators at the event;
3. Signs may be placed on the day of the sporting event and removed that
day after the event is concluded;
4. The sporting association shall be responsible for conformance with this
code provision and for any damage or injuries resulting from the display
of such signs;
5. Such signs shall not be of a political nature nor advertise alcohol, tobacco,
adult entertainment or their use.
Subdivision 4. Prohibited Uses
The following uses are prohibited.
A. Flashing signs and Portable signs
B. Electronic signs having a message that changes more than once per 24-hour
period, except those portions of an electronic sign displaying only the time
and/or temperature. No electronic sign displaying the time and/or
temperature shall blink, flash, or change in any manner whatsoever, except
to display the changing time or temperature. No electronic sign displaying
the time and temperature shall rotate or flash back and forth between the
same.
C. Signs placed on rooftops
Golden Valley City Code
Page 4 of 20
94.20
D. Signs or parts of signs that rotate, move, flutter or which give the appearance of
such action
E. Signs or advertising murals painted directly on a building
F. Signs pa inted or mounted on trees, utility poles, bollards, or other portions of
a property or structure not specifically designed for the display of signs,
except for those window signs where allowed by the Section
G. Signs installed in a way that obstructs clear vision of persons using the
streets or at any location that, because of its position, shape, or color,
interferes with, obstructs the view of, or may be confused with, any
authorized traffic sign, signal, or device. No sign other than Public or
Construction signs, shall be visible from a public street which makes use of
the words "STOP", "LOOK", "DANGER", or any other word, phrase, symbol or
character which may interfere with, mislead, or confuse persons using the
public streets
H. Any sign upon which is stated or depicted any pornographic or obscene
words, conduct, or other matter
I. Any sign relating to adult establishments and accessory uses as defined in
Section 11.50 of this Code unless at the location of such adult establishment
or accessory use and otherwise in conformance with this Section.
J. Signs mounted upon buildings that extend above the roof or parapet wall
level, whichever is higher
Subdivision 5. Permit Exceptions
It is unlawful for any person to erect, construct, repair, resurface, alter or maintain
a sign without first obtaining the applicable permit, except for the following signs:
A. A nameplate not exceeding one (1) square foot in area, and containing only
the name of the resident, or title of person practicing a profession, in the
Residential, Residential R-2 and Multiple Dwelling Zoning District.
B. Real Estate signs pertaining to the lease or sale of real estate containing six
(6) or less square feet.
C. Construction signs advertising the development or improvement of a
property by builder, owner, contractor or other persons furnishing service,
materials or labor, provided such sign is removed when the work is
completed or upon issuance of a certificate of occupancy or completion,
whichever occurs first.
D. Garage sale signs.
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Page 5 of 20
94.20
Subdivision 6. Administration
The Building Official or his or her designee shall administer this Section of the City
Code.
Subdivision 7. Fees
Sign permit fees shall be set by the City Council, adopted by resolution, and
amended from time-to-time.
Subdivision 8. General Regulations
A. Calculation of Sign Area. All signs are included in the calculation of sign area,
except for the following: Address Signs, Construction Signs, Menu Signs not
visible from a right-of-way, Neighborhood Identification Signs, Private
Directional Signs, Real Estate Signs, and Temporary Signs.
B. Free Standing Signs. If there is pedestrian or vehicular traffic that passes
under a free standing sign, eight (8) feet of clearance from basic grade to the
lowest element of the sign shall be required. At the discretion of the Building
Official or his or her designee, a property survey and an engineered plan for
foundations and/or soil tests may be required for freestanding signs.
C. Illumination. Direct rays or glare of light from an illuminated sign shall not be
visible from public rights-of-way or property other than that on which the
illuminated sign is located. Any external source of illumination must be
provided with shields or lenses that concentrate the light onto the sign.
D. Menu Signs. If the name of the business or business logo is included in a
menu sign, the sign area of such name or logo shall be counted as sign area
for determining maximum sign area allowed.
E. Sign Quality. All signs, including but not limited to wall signs, monument
signs, and pylon signs, shall incorporate materials and colors which are
compatible with the building on the site where the sign is to be located.
Compatible shall include, but is not limited to, materials that are consistent
with the principal architectural features and colors of the building(s) being
identified. All signs shall be of good quality, and shall be designed to include
attractive and tasteful colors and design elements. The layout of the sign
shall give the sign a neat and orderly appearance. At the discretion of the
Building Official or his or her designee, the sign permit may be reviewed by
the Building Board of Review.
F. Sign Setbacks. Signs other than residential nameplates and neighborhood
identification signs must be entirely located at least ten (10) feet from all
property lines and ten (10) feet from any driveway on the premises on which
the sign is erected and maintained, except as allowed in the 1-394 Mixed Use
Zoning District. The following additional setbacks are required:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 6 of 20
~ 4.20
1. Signs must be outside the corner visibility zone, as per the corner
visibility requirements in Chapter 7 of the City Code.
2. Shopping center pylon signs shall have a minimum setback of thirty-five
(35) feet from a street property line.
G. Streets and Easements. No sign other than public signs shall be erected or
placed upon any public street, right-of-way, public easement, public land or
project over public property or public easements, except as allowed in the
1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
H. Wall Signs. The following requirements are applicable for all wall signs:
1. Spacing. Signs applied to a building shall be placed as to allow a space
between the end of the sign and the edge of the building or individual
occupancy equal to ten percent (10%) of the linear frontage of the
building or individual occupancy.
2. Sign Projection. No sign may project out more than eighteen (18) inches
from the face of the building to which it is attached, except as allowed in
the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
1. Window Signs. Window sign(s) mounted or hanging on a window surface
must meet the following requirements:
1. No window sign(s) shall occupy more than fifty percent (50%) of the
surface area of a window.
2. If the name of the business or business logo where the sign is located
is included in a window sign, the sign area of such name or logo shall
be counted as sign area for determining maximum sign area allowed.
3. In the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District, window signs on a site
redeveloped or a building substantially remodeled after December 31,
2009, shall be charged as sign area.
J. Garage and Real Estate Sale Signs. Garage and Real Estate sale signs shall
be subject to the following requirements:
1. No resident shall display garage sale signs for more than eight (8) days
per year. Such signs shall not be displayed on more than two (2) non-
continuous occasions per year.
2. All garage sale signs shall clearly identify the address, month, dates or
days of the week of the sale.
3. All signs shall be set back a minimum of fifteen (15) feet from the back of
the curb or behind any existing sidewalk, whichever is greater.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 7 of 20
94.20
4. All signs shall be removed by 9 pm on the final day of the sale.
5. No sign shall be:
a. Greater than six (6) square feet in area or three (3) feet in height. The
height of the sign shall be measured from the top of the sign to the
ground.
b. Located on any governmental property, including the street right-of-
way.
c. Placed on vehicles or trailers located on the public street or any other
public or governmental property.
d. Placed on private property other than the sale premises without prior
permission of the property owner.
e. Posted more than one (1) day prior to the sale.
K. Business Closure. If at any time a business or person goes out of business or
permanently ceases to operate as a business, said business or person shall
meet the following requirements:
1. All business signs, except real estate signs, must be removed within thirty
(30) days.
2. All signs remaining after thirty (30) days shall result in a written warning
to the property owner from the Building Official or his/her designee. The
Building Official or designee shall mail such warning to the property owner
using regular U.S. Mail.
3. All signs not removed within thirty-five (35) days after the date of the
Building Official or designee's letter shall be removed by the Building
Official or his/her designee, and any costs associated with said removal
shall be assessed against the property whereupon the sign was located.
Subdivision 9. Regulation by Zoning District
A. General. Signs not specifically permitted in the zoning districts are
prohibited.
B. Residential Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Residential district
shall exceed six (6) feet in height. The following signs are permitted within
the Residential Zoning district:
1. Temporary signs:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 8 of 20
~ 4.20
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed six (6) square feet per street frontage,
nor fifty (50) square feet if more than six (6) lots or more than two (2)
acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign. A sign with a sign area of thirty-two
(32) square feet at each street opening provided the development
contains at least six (6) lots/dwellings.
C. Two Family (R-2) Residential Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Two
Family Residential district shall exceed six (6) feet in height. The following
signs are permitted within the Two Family (R-2) Residential Zoning District:
1. Temporary signs:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed six (6) square feet, nor fifty (50)
square feet if more than six (6) lots or two (2) acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign. Not to exceed a height of six (6) feet
and a sign area of thirty-two (32) square feet provided the
development contains at least six (6) lots/dwellings.
D. Multiple Dwelling Zoning District. No freestanding sign in the Multiple
Dwelling District shall exceed eight (8) feet in height. The following signs are
permitted within the Multiple Dwelling Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet, nor fifty
(50) square feet if more than six (6) lots or two (2) acres.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 9 of 20
94.20
c. Garage sale signs.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Nameplate sign. Not to exceed one (1) square foot.
b. Neighborhood Identification sign or Wall sign. Is allowed at a
maximum of fifty (50) square feet of total signs if there are at least six
(6) lots/dwellings.
E. Institutional Zoning District. The following signs are permitted within the
Institutional Zoning District:
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed one hundred percent (100%)
of the permanent sign area allowed. Additional size requirements are as
follows:
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed fifty (50) square feet.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet in area.
2. Permanent signs. The total sign area shall not exceed sixty (64) square
feet. The height requirements for permanent signs are as follows:
a. Monument sign. Shall not be higher than twelve (12) feet.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not be higher than twenty-five (25) feet.
F. Business and Professi onal Offices Zoning District. The following signs are
permitted within the Business and Professional Offices Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs: The size shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed thirty-two (32) square feet.
b. Construction sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Monument sign. Shall not exceed twelve (12) feet in height.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not exceed twenty-five (25) feet in height.
3. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
50 s . ft.
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Page 10 of 20
94.20
90 s . ft.
150 s . ft.
G. Commercial Zoning District. The following signs are permitted within the
Commercial Zoning District.
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed seventy-five percent (75%) of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign: No such sign shall exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
b. Construction sign: The following limits apply:
64 s . ft.
90 s . ft.
100 s . ft.
120 s . ft.
2. Permanent signs:
a. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
1 acre
o - 15,000 ross s . ft. 150 s . ft.
1 - 3 acres
15 - 45,000 . ft. 200 s . ft.
3 - 5 acres
45 - 75,000 . ft. 300 s . ft.
Over 5 acres 400 sq. ft.
over 75,000 ross s . ft.
b. Monument sign. Shall not be greater than twelve (12) feet in height.
c. Pylon sign. Shall not be greater than twenty-five (25) feet in height.
d. Shopping Center signage. A shopping center may be allowed one (1)
common pylon sign with a maximum area of two hundred sixty (260)
square feet in addition to the sign area otherwise allowed. Each tenant
shall be allowed two (2) square feet of sign area per foot of lineal
frontage.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 11 of 20
94.20
H. Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts. The following signs are
permitted within the Light Industrial and Industrial Zoning Districts.
1. Temporary signs. The size shall not exceed seventy-five (75) percent of
the permanent sign area allowed.
a. Real estate sign. Not to exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.
b. Construction sign. The following limits apply:
2. Permanent signs:
64 s . ft.
90 s . ft.
100 s . ft.
a. Monument sign. Shall not be greater than twelve (12) feet in height.
b. Pylon sign. Shall not be greater than twenty-five (25) feet in height.
c. Maximum Total Sign Area. The following limits apply:
150 sq. ft.
180 sq. ft.
200 sq. ft.
d. Office Warehouse Park signage. An Office Warehouse Park may be
allowed one (1) common sign with a a maximum area of one hundred
eighty (180) square feet in addition to the sign area otherwise allowed.
If the Office Warehouse Park features multiple tenants, each tenant
shall be allowed two (2) square feet of sign area per foot of lineal
frontage.
I. Planned Unit Development (PUD). Signs for a PUD shall be governed by the
underlying zoning on the property.
J. 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District. This district has unique requirements
requiring special consideration.
1. Expanded Purpose. The City of Golden Valley has completed a study of
the 1-394 corridor, established a separate zoning district for this corridor
Golden Valley City Code
Page 12 of 20
94.20
and hereby establishes sign regulations for this special district. The sign
purposes for this district are the following:
a. The sign purposes as contained in Subdivision 1 Purposes.
b. Improve, or at least not detract from, visual coherence and
attractiveness of the corridor.
c. Sign colors and materials shall complement those of the building.
d. Signs shall be visually appealing.
e. Signs are to be pedestrian oriented.
f. Achieve, or at least not detract from, contributing to compatibility
among buildings, streetscape, public views, and spaces.
g. Ensure the city's purposes and objectives of the 1-394 Corridor Study
and the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District are met.
h. Ensure sign areas are calculated and charged as sign area.
2. Signage Plan Required.
a. A signage plan which shows buildings, access, parking, setbacks-open
space, property lines, and the location, size, materials, height,
illumination, if any, of existing and proposed signs and buildings and
other relevant site features must be submitted to the city at the time
of site plan review or consideration for a conditional use permit. If a
site plan review or conditional use permit is not required and a sign
application is submitted, a signage plan must also be submitted unless
a signage plan approved by the city is on file.
b. To be approved, the Signage Plan must be found to meet the Purpose
clause, the Expanded Purpose clause and all other requirements of the
sign ordinance applicable to the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
c. To be approved, the area of all signs must be calculated and charged
as sign area unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
d. Upon approval of the signage plan by the city, said signage plan shall
govern the location, type and size of signs until and unless the site
plan is amended with a new and approved signage plan which is in
conformance with the sign ordinance in effect at the time of
submission of the amended plan.
e. Prior to constructing a sign, a sign permit must be obtained and a
signage plan approved unless excepted by 4.20 Subdivision 5.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 13 of 20
94.20
3. The following signs are permitted within the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning
District:
a. Temporary signs.
1.) Real estate signs. The following limits apply:
I Single-use
Mixed-use
132 s:. ft.
64 s . ft.
2.) Construction signs. The following limits apply:
I Single-use 1120 s:. ft.
Mixed-use 120 s . ft
3.) Garage Sale signs for single-use Multiple Dwellings.
4.) Other temporary signs, banners and inflatables as regulated in
Subdivision 10.
b. Permanent signs:
1.) Maximum Total Sign Area.
a) The maximum total sign area allowed includes the area of all
signs as defined by Subdivision W, provided however, window
signs are included as sign area, as described in Subdivision
9(J)(3)(B)(9).
b)The maximum total sign area allowed is based on use and other
factors. Three (3) use categories are established: Single Use
Residential, Single Use Non-Residential, and Mixed Uses. The
following limits apply:
Maximum Total Sign
Area
1 s . ft. er dwellin
50 s . ft.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 14 of 20
Single Use Non-
Residential
(Includes single use
commercial, office, hotel,
institutional, and
industrial/light industrial
uses)
Parcel Size or Floor Area
o to 1 acre or floor area of
o to 15 000 ross s . ft.
> 1 to 3 acres or floor area of
> 15 to45 000 ross s . ft.
>3 to 5 acres or floor area of
>45 to 75 000 ross s . ft.
>5 acres or floor area of
> 75 000 ross s . ft.
Mixed Uses
Parcel Size or Floor Area
o to 1 acre or floor area of
o to 15 000 ross s . ft.
> 1 to 3 acres or floor area of
> 15 to45 000 ross s . ft.
>3 to 5 acres or floor area of
>45 to 75 000 ross s . ft.
94.20
Maximum Total Si n Area
1-394 Mixed Use Zonin District
Subdistrict Subdistrict Subdistrict
ABC
Low Rise - up Mid Rise - up High Rise - up
to 3 stories to 6 stories to 10 stories
100 s .ft 120 s .ft 150 s . ft.
120 s . ft. 150 s . ft. 2005 . ft.
200 s . ft. 250 s .ft 300 s . ft.
300 s . ft. 350 s . ft 400 s .ft
Maximum Total Si n Area
1-394 Mixed Use Zonin District
Subdistrict Subdistrict Subdistrict
ABC
Low Rise - up
to 3 stories
Mid Rise - up
to 6 stories
High Rise - up to
10 stories
150 s . ft
180 s . ft
200 s . ft.
200 s . ft.
250 s . ft.
300 s . ft.
250 s . ft.
300 s . ft
400 5 . ft.
350 5 . ft.
400 s . ft
2.) Building Name Signs. If a building is to be named with a sign, the
building may only have one (1) name. If placed on a building wall,
the wall sign must be placed at one of the following locations:
a.) On the ground level.
b.) A wall space contiguous to the ground level and architecturally
designed for the sign to be placed or to be an acceptable area
for the sign.
c.) A suitable wall space at the upper level of the building.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 15 of 20
94.20
d.) An intermediate level between the ground level and the top
level provided the wall space is architecturally designed for the
sign or found to be an acceptable area for the sign.
3.) Wall Signs. Prohibited location guide. No building name sign, tenant
sign, sign advertising a product or service shall be placed
a.) Over any portion of a window
b.) On or above a roof top
c.) On or above a penthouse, a roof top equipment enclosure or
similar structure
d.) Between the ground level and the uppermost level unless the
sign meets the following guide: The sign is located and
integrated into a framed wall mass where the ratio of the
framed wall space/mass is at least three and one-half (3.5)
times larger than the sign area to be located in the framed wall
space. The framed wall space must be continuous, that is
uninterrupted or unbroken by another wall or similar feature
and void of any windows, doors or similar features.
4.) Free Standing Sign. One (1) free standing sign (pylon or
monument sign) per lot not to exceed twenty-five (25) feet in
height provided the sign is located within four hundred (400) feet
of the outside edge of the 1-394 right-of-way.
5.) Multi-tenant Building Signs. Unless the name of the building, a sign
for a ground level tenant must be located at the ground level. No
upper level tenant shall have a sign on an upper level unless such
sign is the name of the building and meets the building name and
wall sign requirements.
6.) Projecting Signs. Signs projecting from a wall canopy or awning
may be allowed by the city subject to the following:
a.) The sign must be located at least eight (8) feet above the
walking surface or ground level unless located flat against the
building and the projection is less than six (6) inches if the sign
is attached to a wall.
b.) No part of the projection shall be closer than one (1) foot from
the curb line projected vertically.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 16 of 20
94.20
c.) The property owner may be required to obtain a license from
the city or to execute an agreement with the city governing use,
maintenance and other factors.
7.) Awning - Canopy sign limits
a.) No awning or canopy sign is allowed to extend to a height
greater than necessary to cover the door, window or opening it
is covering on the first or ground level. No awning or canopy
above the first or ground level shall include a sign.
b.) No sign on a canopy or awning shall extend into a band along
the outside edges of the canopy or awning with the band width
equal to at least ten percent (10%) of width along the width
dimension and ten percent (10%) along the length dimension.
8.) Window Signs. Window signs on a site redeveloped or a building
substantially remodeled after December 31, 2009, shall be charged
as sign area.
9.) Sign Setbacks.
a.) Free Standing Signs. No portion of an allowed pylon sign or
monument sign shall be located within an easement and shall
meet the following:
Yard Minimum Setback
Front Yard 10 feet
Side Yard 5 feet
Rear Yard 5 feet
b.) Canopies, Awnings and Similar Structures. Signs on canopies,
awnings or similar structures which overhang or extend into the
right-of-way may be allowed through approval of the plan by
the City Council. The property owner may be required to obtain
a license from the city or to execute an agreement with the city
governing its use, maintenance and other factors.
10.) Other Design Requirements in the 1-394 Mixed Use Zoning District.
Signs are also required to conform to the following:
a.) Sign Quality - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(E)
b.) Illumination - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(C)
c.) Outdoor Lighting - see Section 11.73
d.) Wall Sign Spacing - see 4.20 Subdivision 8(H)(l)
Golden Valley City Code
Page 17 of 20
94.20
e.) Temporary Signs, Banners and Inflatables - see 4.20
Subdivision 10
f.) Other application requirements of 4.20 not specifically listed
above
Subdivision 10. Temporary Signs, Banners and Inflatables
The use of temporary signs such as banners, pennants, inflatables (including
balloons over eighteen (18) inches in diameter) for advertising temporary sales,
business openings, special events, similar activities or used for other purposes are
limited to the following:
A. Real estate signs are subject to the following requirements: leasing signs
must be removed after initial leasing or within three hundred sixty (360)
days after a certificate of occupancy is issued if involving a new building or a
substantial remodeling. Leasing information integrated into an approved
permanent neighborhood identification sign or monument sign and given the
same architectural treatment using the same materials and design given to
the neighborhood identification or monument sign are not subject to the
removal provisions of this section. No real estate or for sale sign shall remain
on a property longer than one (1) year unless approved by the Building
Official or his or her designee.
B. The maximum duration shall not exceed a total of thirty (30) days in anyone
(1) calendar year. Each property is limited to three (3) occurrences in one
calendar year.
C. An approved permit shall be obtained prior to display of a temporary sign. A
temporary sign displayed without a permit shall be removed and no new
temporary sign shall be allowed nor shall a permit be approved within the
next twelve (12) months.
Subdivision 11. Design and Construction
All signs shall be in compliance with the most currently adopted versions of the
Minnesota State Building Code and the National Electric Safety Code.
Subdivision 12. Non-Conforming Signs
A. General. A non-conforming sign shall not be rebuilt, relocated, altered or
modified in size or height, unless it is made fully conforming with this article.
B. Removal. Except for changing signs, if a face or message on a nonconforming
sign is resurfaced or removed, the entire sign and sign structure must be
removed or made to conform with this article.
C. Signs with a height greater than twenty-five (25) feet allowed by policy
during construction of 1-394 must be removed or made to conform to the
current ordinance if either one (1) or both of the following is proposed:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 18 of 20
94.20
1) a new sign is required on the pylon, or 2) a new sign of one hundred-
twenty (120) or more square feet is proposed on the property.
Subdivision 13. Maintenance
All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from rust, corrosion loose or flaking
paint, worn or damaged materials or rotted framework or other members, broken
or missing members or missing letters. The premises surrounding all ground signs
shall be maintained in a safe, clean, and sanitary condition free and clear of all
rubbish and weeds.
Subdivision 14. Permit Penalties
Any sign constructed or erected without the required permit shall be subject to
removal, if necessary, or subject to a double fee if in compliance with all other
applicable requirements of this Section.
Subdivision 15. Administrative Citations
A. Administrative citations.
1. A fine for a violation of any provision of this Section may be assessed
through an administrative citation, issued by the City Manager or his/her
designee and payable directly to the City.
2. The Council shall establish by resolution the amount of the fine to be
assessed for all administrative citations. These fines shall not exceed the
maximum penalty for a misdemeanor violation under State law.
3. Payment of any such fine shall not excuse the failure to correct the
violation nor shall it bar further enforcement activity by the City.
4. Any fine paid pursuant to this Section shall be refunded if it is
determined, after an appeal hearing, that there was no violation as
charged in the administrative citation.
5. Payment for any administrative citation shall be due twenty (20) days
after its issuance.
B. Content. All administrative citations shall contain the following:
1. The date of the violation;
2. The address or a definite description of the location where the violation
occurred;
3. The name, address, and other identifying information for the person being
cited;
4. The provisions of this Section violated and a description of the violation;
Golden Valley City Code
Page 19 of 20
94.20
5. The fine schedule for the violation;
6. A description of how, when, and where the fine must be paid;
7. A brief description of the appeal process;
8. The name and signature .of the citing official.
C. Recovery of fine resulting from administrative citation. Property owners shall
be notified yearly by U.S. Mail of any outstanding administrative citations and
that such citations will be assessed against the property. Thirty (30) days
after mailing such letter, the Clerk shall file any outstanding administrative
citations as special assessments against each such property which shall
become liens on such lots or lands. This shall be an additional remedy and
not in lieu of any other penalty provided for in City Code or state law.
D. Failure to pay administrative citation.
1. Failure to pay any administrative citation shall constitute grounds for
suspending or revoking any license or permit held by the offenders.
2. Failure to pay an administrative citation shall constitute a separate,
additional violation of City Code.
E. Appeals.
1. Right of appeal. Any person aggrieved by an administrative citation may
appeal the administrative citation to the Council. Such appeals must be in
writing, must specify the grounds for the appeal, must be accompanied by
a filing fee, and must be filed with the Clerk within 10 (ten) business days
after service of the administrative citation. The filing fee shall be set by
the Council. Failure to file an appeal shall constitute a waiver of rights to
contest the administrative citation and the imposition of the fine.
2. Decision. Upon at least five (5) business days notice to the appellant of
the time and place for the hearing the appeal, and within thirty (30) days
after said appeal is filed, the Council shall hold a hearing thereon, at
which the applicant may appear and present evidence as to why the
administrative citation, or any portion thereof, should not be issued. The
Council may reverse, modify, or affirm, in whole or in part, the
administrative citation and shall order return of all or part of the filing fee
if the appeal is upheld. The Council may postpone a meeting and hold a
hearing at a later date, not to exceed sixty (60) days after the appeal is
filed, when it is necessary to do so.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 20 of 20
alley
Memorandum
Public Works
763-593-8030 I 763-593-3988 (fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
May 12, 2009
Agenda Item
2. Draft Stormwater Management Ordinance
Prepared By
Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works
AI Lundstrom, Environmental Coordinator
Eric Eckman, Public Works Specialist
Summary
Please find attached the draft Stormwater Management Ordinance for your review. The draft
ordinance is an expansion of the existing Grading, Drainage and Erosion Control Ordinance
(Section 4.31). The title of the draft ordinance has been changed to better reflect the
expanded scope.
The existing Grading, Drainage and Erosion Control Ordinance is being expanded to meet
the following goals:
1. Better define and clarify the land-disturbing activities which require a permit.
2. Meet the requirements of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management
Commission's Second Generation Plan.
3. Meet the requirements of Golden Valley's National Pollution Discharge and
Elimination Phase II Federal Permit.
The following are the major additions to the existing ordinance with references to pages in the
attached clean version of the draft:
1. Expands criteria for "Activities Requiring a Permit." The following are changes or
additions to the activities listed in the existing ordinance (see pages 7-8, Subdivision 4):
a. The permit threshold for removal of soils is reduced from 10,000 square feet to
4,000 square feet.
b. Land-disturbing activities that require a building permit are expanded to include
demolitions, swimming pools and retaining walls.
c. A permit threshold of 30 cubic yards is proposed for cutting, filling, hauling or
storage of material.
d. Construction or modification of a parking lot.
e. Construction or modification of stormwater BMPs.
f. Land-disturbing activities within a floodplain, or adjacent to shoreline and creek
banks.
2. Adds a lowest floor elevation or flood proofing requirement for existing and proposed
structures located adjacent to wetlands, basins and stormwater management ponds
(page 14, Subdivision 5(A).
3. Adds a minimum 25-foot setback requirement for new principal structures proposed to
be constructed adjacent to wetlands and stormwater management ponds (page 14,
Subdivision 5(8).
4. Adds a minimum 10-foot natural buffer requirement around new and existing wetlands
and stormwater ponds for all new development, redevelopment or any building
expansion by 10 percent or greater (page 14, Subdivision 5(C).
a. Exemptions are included in single family and moderate density residential
zoning districts for additions to existing structures and new accessory structures
less than 400 square feet.
5. Adds an illegal disposal and illicit discharge component as per NPDES Phase II
requirements (page 16, Subdivision 6).
6. Identifies responsibility for private property stormwater drainage and the process for
addressing drainage problems (page 17, Subdivision 7).
Attachments
Section 4.31: Draft Stormwater Ordinance - redline version (25 pages)
Section 4.31: Draft Stormwater Ordinance - clean version (17 pages)
94.31
Section 4.31:
Crading,Drainagc, and-Erosion
GeBtrelStormwater Management
Subdivision 1. Council findings, Purpose, and MeaftsStatutorv
Authorization and PurDose
A. Statutory Authorization. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to the
authorization and policies contained in Minnesota Statutes Chapters 1038
and 462.
A-;8. Findings. The City Council finds thelt although there elre scverell permit
requirements from velrious elgcncies regulating grading activities, therc arc eI
signifieelnt number of projects occurring eelch year thelt elre not r-cquircd to
obtelin elny form of permit for Ielnd elltereltion. The City Council recognizes that
the City of Colden Vellley, elt the local level, is best suited tocstelblish eI
permit system to minimize the significant erosion occurring eelch ycar from
these sites. The City of Golden Valley finds that uncontrolled stormwater
runoff and construction site erosion from land development and land
disturbing activities can have significant adverse impacts upon local and
regional water resources. diminishing the quality of public health. safety.
public and private property and natural resources of the community.
SOC. Purpose. The purposcof this ordinancc is to reduce erosion elnd
sediment deposition to the greatest prelctical extent; reduce sediment
deposition into the celteh basin elnd storm sewer system, thus pr-cventing
flooding problcms which can delmelgc property; and to limit the amount of
sediment dcposition. into lakcs, streams, and. ponds within the City of Colden
Valley. The general purpose of this ordinance is to establish regulatory
requirements for land development and land disturbing activities aimed at
minimizing the threats to publiC health. safety. public and private property
and natural resources within the community resulting from construction site
erosion and post-construction stormwater runoff.
G" ~4cans. Thc City intends to implement this ordinance threugh the fallowing
means:
1. Rcqulr-c a security deposit at the time of permit application as security
that the provisions of the permit will be met.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 1 of 25
~ 4.31
ti Est~blish ~ permit system to provide ~ means for monitoring and
inspectiAg grading activities.
~ Require design and construction of erosion and sediment control
measures to minimize sediment deposition.
Subdivision 2. General Provisions and Definitions
fAr. Statutory Authorization. The City of Colden Vtllle'f has authorit'; under
~4innesota Sttltutes Chapter 497 to regultlte grading, drtlin~gc tlnderosion
control for I~nd disturbing tlctivities. This ordintlnce, ~s '.vell as Chtlpter 103
of ~4innesot~ St~tutestlnd Section 404 of the Federal Cletln'Nater Act,tllso
regultltes erosion ~nd sediment control. 'Nhere,in ~ny specific ctlse,
differences occur between these ordintlnces the most restrictive shall govern.
&- Scope. A grading,drtlinage ~nd erosion control permit shtlll be required for
~ny.and all grading activities meeting the criteria listed within this code.
A. Responsibility. Neither the issuance of the grading, drainage and en>sion
controla stormwater management permit nor compliance with its conditions
or the provisions of this ordinance, shall relieve any person from any
responsibility otherwise imposed by law for damages to persons or
properties, nor shall the issuance of any permit hereunder serve to impose
any liability on the municipality or its officers or employees for injury or
damage to persons or property. A permit issued pursuant to this ordinance
shall not relieve the permittee of the responsibility of complying with any
other requirements established by law, regulation or ordinances.
B. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not the intention of this ordinance
to repeal or abrogate any existing grading, drainage and erosion controlafld
sediment contr'6l or stormwater management policies or permits issued under
pre-existing Section 4.31. which permits shall continue in full force and
effect; however, where this section imposes greater restrictions, the
provisions of this section shall prevail.
C. Compatibility and Compliance with other Regulations. This ordinance is not
intended to modify or repeal any other ordinance~ rule, rt~gulation or Qth~r
provision of law. The requirements of this ordinance are In addition to the
requirements of any other ordinance, rule~ regulation or other provision of
law, and where any provision of this ordinance imposes restrictions different
from those Impos~d by ~ny other ordln~ncE;!~ rule, regul~tion or Qth~r
Golden Valley City Code
Page 2 of 25
~ 4.31
provision of law. whichever provision is more restrictive or imposes higher
protective standards shall control.
D. Application to all Water Entering System. This ordinance shall apply to all
water entering the City's stormwater management system from any land
within the City.
G-;-E. Responsibility for Administration and Waivers. The Administrator shall
administer. implement. and enforce the provisions of this ordinance. Any
powers granted or duties imposed upon the Administrator by this ordinance
may be delegated to persons or entities acting in the interest of the City. The
Administrator may waive any submittal or administrative requirement that
will not adversely affect achievement of the purpose. goals and performance
standards of this ordinance.
fhF. Definitions. fTerms not defined in this section shall have the meaning
customarily assigned to them as a matter of general usage.~ For the
purposes of this section. the words "must" and "shall" are mandatory and not
permissive.
1. Administrator: The individual responsible for overseeing the
requirements of the City Code for purposes of thise section of this codel1
the administrator shall be the City Engineer or his/her designee.
~Alteration: Any change or modification of land, water, vegetation or
existing structures.
3. Applicant: A permittee. or any person or entity that applies for any
permit for a project that includes a land disturbing activity. Applicant also
means that person's agents. employees. and others acting underthat
person's direction.
204. Bassett Creek Watershed Manavement Commission or BCWMC:
The watershed management organization established by a joint powers
agreement between nine member cities including the City of Golden
Valley. The BCWMC is responsible for managing water resources within
the 40 square mile Bassett Creek watershed. Most of the City of Golden
Valley Is located within the Bassett Creek watershed.
3.~Best Management Practices ALtBMPs~: ~~caRs cfrosion and
sediment control and water quality management practices that are the
most effective and practicable means of controlling, preventing, and
minimizing degradation of surface water, including construction-phasing,
Golden Valley City Code
Page 3 of 25
~ 4.31
minimizing the length of time soil areas are exposed, prohibitions, and
other management practices published by state or designated areawide
planning agencies. Examples of BMPs can be found in Protecting Water
Quality in Urban Areas, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 19892000,
Minnesota Urban Small Sites BMP Manual, Metropolitan Council 2001.
State of Minnesota Storm water Manual. MPCA 2005, aM Storm Water
Management for Construction Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention
Plans and Best Management Practices, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency 1992 ~s a reference for B~~Ps, and Erosion Control
HandbookDcsigR MaRt/a:, Minnesota Department of Transportation, ct ai,
-1-9932002.
Barrow: Earth m~tcri~1 ~cquircd from on off site location for use in
grading on a site.
4;-6. Calculated high water level: The oeak elevation calculated for a
100-year precipitation or snowmelt runoff event.
SoL-Development: The construction, installation or alteration of any
structure; the extraction, filling, clearing or other alteration of land or
vegetation; the change of cross section of any water body of watercourse;
the subdivision of land pursuant to the City Code.
&-~Earth Material: Any rock, natural soil or fill or combination thereof.
7o~Erosion: The wearing away of soil by rainfall, surface water runoff,
wind, or ice movement.
&-10. Erosion Control: Methods employed to prevent erosion. Examples
include soil stabilization practices, horizontal slope grading, temporary or
permanent cover, and construction phasing.
l1.Final Stabilization: The installationestablishment of permanent cover on
the entire site.
9.12. Floodplain:Those areas within the City which include the beds proper
and the areas adjoining Bassett Creek or its tributaries, which have been,
or hereafter may be, covered by a regional flood.
1-9.13. Grade: The vertical location of the ground surface.
1-1.14. Grading: Any land disturbance or landfill, or combination thereof.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 4 of 25
~ 4.31
12. CradiA" Draina,~ and Erosion Controll"lan (also known as
Cradin, Plan); A set of best management prnctices or equivalcnt
measuresdcsigncd to control surfacc runoff and erosion and to retain
sediment ona particular site during the period in which pre construction
and construction rclated land disturbances, fills and soil storage occur,
and after all other planned structures and permanent improvements ha';e
been erected or iFlstalled.
15. Illicit Connections: An illicit connection is defined as either of the
following:
a. Any drain or conveyance, whether on the surface or subsurface,
which allows an illegal discharge to enter the storm drain
system, including but not limited to any conveyance which
allows any non-stormwater discharge including sewage, process
wastewater, and wash water to enter the storm drain system
and any connections to the storm drain system from indoor
drains and sinks, except discharges from sump pits, regardless
of whether said drain or connection had been previously
allowed, permitted, or approved by an authorized enforcement
agency: or
b. Any drain or conveyance connected from a residential,
commercial or industrial land use to the storm drain system~
which has not been documented in plans~ maps, or equivalent
records and approved by an authorized enforcement agency.
16. Land Disturbancef ..m:...Land-Disturbing Activities: Any moving or
r'Cmo\'ing by manual or mechanical means of the soil mantle or top six (6)
inches of soil, whichever is more shallow including, but not limited to,
cxcavatioFls. Any land change that may result in soil erosion from water
or wind and the movement of sediments into or upon waters or lands.
This may include, but is not limited to, a disturbance. that results in a
change in topography, or disturbance of the existing soil cover (both
vegetative and non-vegetative). Land-disturbing activities incl4de
clearing and grubbing~ grading, excavating, tl"ansportingearth material
and filling of land for all new construction and redevelopment. Activities
that do not meet the thresholds for projects identified in Subdivision 4. A.
are not considered land-disturbing activities.
17. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District or MCWD: The MCWD Issues
permits for erosion control and stormwater man~gJ!ment facilities In a
small area of the City south of Interstate 394 and east of Highway 100.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 5 of 25
~ 4.31
-13;18. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System or NPDES
program: The program for issuing. modifying. revoking. reissuing.
terminating. monitoring. and enforcing permits under the Clean Water
Act. Sections 301.318. 402. and 405 and United States Code of Federal
Regulations Title 33. Sections 1317. 1328. 1342. and 1345.
-14.19. Owner: Includes fee owner, contract purchaser, and lessee for whom
construction is being undertaken.
~20. Permanent Cover: Final stabilization. Examples include grass, native
vegetation. gr~vellandscape rock. mulch, asphalt, and concrete.
-1&21. Permit: An official document or certificate issued by the City of Golden
Valley Enginecr authorizing performance of a specified activity.
22. Permittee: An applicant or any A-person or entity who signs the
application submitted to the City and is responsible for compliance with its
terms and conditions.
-1+023. Regional Flood: A flood which is representative of large floods known
to have occurred generally in Minnesota. and reasonably characteristic of
what can be expected to occur on an average frequency in the magnitude
of the one hundred (100)-year recurrence interval.
-1&-24. Sediment: The product of an erosion process; solid material both
mineral and organic, that is in suspension, is being transported, or has
been. moved by water, air, or ice, and has come to rest on the earth's
surface either above or below water level.
19.25. Sediment Control: Methods employed to prevent sediment from
leaving the site. Sediment control practices include silt fences, sediment
traps, earth dikes, drainage swales, check dams, subsurface drainpipe
slope drains, storm drain inlet protection, and temporary or permanent
sedimentation basins.
~26. Site: A parcel or parcels of real property owned by one or more than
one (1) person, which is being or is capable of being developed as a
single project.
~27. Soil: The unconsolidated mineral and organic mineral material on the
immediate surface of the earth.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 6 of 25
S 4.31
-2-2.28. Stabilized: The exposed ground surface has been covered by staked
sod, riprap, wood fiber blanket, or other material, which prevents erosion
from occurring. Crass seed is notstabiliz<ltion.Ground surface which has
been seeded is not stabilized.
29. Storm-Wwater: The pErecipitation runoff, storm-water runoff, snowmelt
runoff, and any other surface runoff and drainage. Storm-water does not
include construction site dewatering and sump discharge.
30. Stormwater Management Plan. A plan which describes how
stormwater runoff and associated water quantity and water quality
impacts resulting from the proposed development project will be
controlled and managed. The plan must show the location and type of
management practices or equivalent measures designed to control. surface
runoff and erosion and to retain sediment on a particular site during the
period in which pre-construction and construction-related land
disturbances. fills and soil storage occur. and after all other planned
structures and permanent improvements have been erected or installed.
Unless waived by the Administrator. the plan must be signed by a
licensed professional.engineer ("PElf) or landscape architect. who will
verify that the design of all stormwater management practices meets the
requirements of the City's Surface Water Management Plan ("SWMpIf). the
requirements of this ordinance. and the requirements of the appropriate
watershed management organization.
31. Stormwater Management System: The combined public and private
systems of collecting. conveying. storing and treating stormwater runoff.
The system includes a wide variety of components including. but not
limited to. streets. curbs. gutters. ponds. catch basins. pipes. natural and
constructed drainageways. infiltration basins. lakes and creeks.
32. Stormwater PollutiQn Prevention Plan or SWPPP: A plan for
storm water discharge that includes erosion prevention measures and
sediment controls that. when implemented. will decrease soil erosion on a
parcel of land and decrease off site non point pollution.
33. Sump Discharge: Water that has been filtered through the ground or soil
layers resulting in clear water. Sump discharge is not considered
stormwater.
Bo-34. Surface Waters: All streams. lakes. ponds. marshes. wetlands.
reservoirs,. springs. rivers. drainage systems. w~terways, and
watercours~s. whether natl.lral or artificial. public or private.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 7 of 25
~ 4.31
35. Temporary Erosion Protection: Methods employed to prevent erosion
before final stabilization. Examples include; erosion netting, wood fiber
blanket, wood chips and silt fence.
24.36. Wetlands: Wetlands are defined in Minn. R. 7055.0130, Subp. F and
includes those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or
ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that
under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally
include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
Subdivision 3. Crading, Drainage and. Erasion Control Per....itsPermit
Authoritv for Land-Disturbina Activities
A. City of Golden Valley . The City of Golden Valley is the permitting authority
for land disturbing activities within the boundaries of the BCWMC and the
MCWD. The City may issue aStormwater Management Permit approving
land disturbing activities in these areas.
B. Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC). Although the
BCWMC is not a permitting authority, it has the authority to review and
approve projects listed hi the document "Requirements for Improvements
and Development Proposals." Such projects must comply with. BCWMC
guidelinesr policies, standards and requirements. The. BCWMC will review
the applicant's submittal only after the project has received preliminary
review by the City indicating general compliance with existing local
watershed management plans.
C. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD). The MCWD is the permitting
authority for land disturbing activities in excess of five thousand square feet
(5,000 sq ft) within the MCWD boundaries. Where required, the MC;:WD
permit is in addition to a permit required by the City of Golden Valley.
D. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The MPCA is the permitting
authority for land disturbing activities requiring an NPDES permit for
construction. activity,. including the requirements for developing and
implementing a SWPPP. Where required, the NPDES permitis in addition to
permits required by the City of Golden Valley and the MCWD.
IJ.d)divi5ion 4~ City of G91den Valley Stormwate.. Managem,nt P~..mit
Pr. CCfu:riJl.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 8 of 25
~ 4.31
h Except uS provided in subdi'/ision 3(c), no gruding or development of any
kind sholl be ollowedwithout first hoving applied for and been grunted 0
grading, droinogc and erosion control permit from the City.
b The grunting of 0 grading, drainoge and erosion control permit docs not
abrogate the opplicant's need to obtain permits required by other local,
stote or federal agencies.
~ The applicant shall provide the City with a non refundoble application fee
os outlined in the fee resolution to cover the cost of administration and
inspection. In addition, if the estimoted costs of construction exceed five
thousand dollars ($5,000), the applicant may be required to post
odditionol securities to ensure the provisions of the permit arc met.
&A. Activities Requiring a City of Golden Valley Stormwater Management
Permit. Except as otherwise provided in this section, no person. may grade,
fill, excavate, store or dispose of soil or eorth moterials or perform any other
land disturbing or land filling acti'/it; including, but not limited to, lot
preparation ossociated '/lith new home construction without first obtaining a
permit from the City. The following activities shall require a grading, drainage
and erosion control permit.
1. Land-disturbing activities which remove soils or vegetation. including but
not limited to clearing. digging. dredging. draining or filling. Any of the
following activities shall require a StormwaterManagement Permit:
a. Any hland disturbing activities which remove soils or vegetation in
excess of tEffifour thousand square feet, (1G4,OOO sq. ft), including but
not limited to clearing, digging, dredging, draining or filling.
b. Any activity requiring a building permit that would involve installation,
demolition. modification or expansion of a building foundation wall".
including swimming pools and retaining walls.
c. Any land disturbing activities within City right-of-way that have a
duration greater than seventy-two U2l.hours.
d. Cutting, filling. eQisposal. hauling in. or storage of more than 30 c;ubic
yards of borr"6w material.
LInstallation of underground utilities including sanitary sewer, water,
storm sewer. gas, electric. cable. fiber optic and telephone.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 9 of 25
9 4.31
f. Construction, reclamation, expansion, removal or modification of a
parking lot.
g. Construction, expansion or modification of a stormwater quality
treatment facility or stormwater BMPs.
e;-h. Any land disturbing activities within the 100-year floodplain or
calculated high water level of any water body, or immediately adjacent
to any wetland or public water body, including shoreline restoration
and, creek bank stabilization.
,
i. Those activities required to meet "Levell standards" and
"Nondegradation standards" of the BCWMC as set forth in the current
version of BCWMC's Requirements for Improvements and Development
Proposals as amended from time to time.
b..Acti'/ities/Exceptions Not Requiring a Permit. The following activities may
be undertaken without a Stormwater ManagementCrading, Drainage and
Erosion Co fltr'O I Permit:
a. Maintenance of existing yards.
b. Emergency work to preserve life or property.
€oB. Application Submittal Requirementsfor Permit. Each City of Golden
Valley Storm water Management Permit application shall. include the following
items unless waived by the Administrator. Two sets of plans and supporting
documentation and one electronic copy of the plans and supporting
documentation shall be submitted with each application.Aflfllicatiofls for
grading, draiflage and er-osion control permits shall be made by thcavmer(s)
or permittee of the property and shall be submitted to the Public 'Narks
Department. All applications shall be accomflanied by the city form
applicatiofl fee and shall iflclude the following inf-ormation except to extent
waived b't the Administrator:
1. Completed application forms and fees required by the City and BCWMC.
2. Provision made for financial securities as required in Subdivision 4(F).
3. Copies of permits or permit applications required by other jurisdictions.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 10 of 25
~ 4.31
4. Existing site conditions on a certified survey. prepared to City standards
and including existing topography. easements. vegetation and drainage.
-1.5. Stormwater Management Cr~ding, DruinuQe und Erosion Control Plan
and Narrative. Plans prepared to City standards including :A nurrutive und
el mupor ~ series of maps or druwings prepe.red to City stundurds, thut
contuin inform~tion expluined in the nurre.tive including:
a. Project description - The nature and purpose of the land-disturbing
activity and the amount of grading involved.
b. Phasing of construction - The proposed stages of grading, utilities, and
building construction.
e; Existing. site conditions Existing topogre.ph'(, yegete.tion und
druinage.
e.c. Adjacent areas - A minimum of one hundred (100) feet beyond
the project site boundaries including neighboring streams, lakes,
residential areas, roads, etc., which might be affected by the
land-disturbing activity.
e.d. Erosion and sediment control measures - Methods to be used to
control erosion and sedimentation on the site, both during and after
the construction process.
~e. Permanent coverstabilization - How the site will be stabilized
after construction is completed, including specifications.
~ Stormwe.ter manugement How storm runoff will be managed,
including methods to be used if the dC'Jelopment VJiII result in
increased peak rates of runoff.
LMaintenance - Schedule of regular inspections and repair of erosion
and sediment control structures.
flog. A narrative describing the nature an~ purpose of the land-
disturbing activities~ the amount of grading involved and other project
information describing activities on thf;! abQve identifi~d maps.
i-. Calculations Engineering calculatians that were made for the design
of such items as sediment basins, diversions, water:/ays, storm water
Golden Valley City Code
Page 11 of 25
94.31
man~gement systems, w~ter qu~lity features and other ~pplieable
pr~ctices.
~. Grading, Dr~in~ge and Erosion Control Plan prepared according to City
Standards.
3-; Certificate of Survey. Prepared in ~eeordance with City specifications,
where required.
4;-~Soil Engineering Report, where required.
5-:-L....-Engineering Geology Report, where required.
LWork schedule, where required
9. Tree Preservation Plan.
10.A Wetland Buffer and Planting Plan.
11.Construction plans and specifications for all proposed permanent
stormwater management facilities.
12.AII hydrologic. hydraulic. and other computations necessary to design the
proposed stormwater management facilities.
6.13. All exhibits required by BCWMC.
7014. Any supplementary material required by the Administrator.
&- Tr'Ce Pr'Csen:ation plan, if r'CquiR:d.
9.15. Estimate of costs necessary to perform allexecute the $tormwater
Management PlanGradiAg, Drainage and Erasion. Control measures.
5ulsdivisiora4. Per....it fccs arad Securities
Pr. Fees for permits shall be determined by the CouAcil .and fixed by. a R:solution,
a copy of '.\'hich shall be in the office of the City ~4anager and uniforml.,.
enfor'Ced.
8.. The applicant shall provide security f-or the performance of the work
described and delineated in the Grading Plan iA an amount to be determined
by the fee r'Csolution but not less than one hUAdrcd and fift.,. per'Ccnt (1500/0)
Golden Valley City Code
Page 12 of 25
~ 4.31
of the approved estimated cost of performing 011 work related togr~ding,
dr;:lin;:lge and erosion control measures.
&- Security deposited. with the City for faithful performaRce of the gr;:lding and
erosion control work and to finance neceSS;:lry remedial work shall be
released one (1) '(car after final inspection has been approved by the
Administr;:ltor, provided no ;:lction against such security h;:lS been filed prior
to th;:lt d;:lte. The city reserves the right to retain ;:lllor 0 percentage of the
security for ;:l warranty period ;:It the discretion of the Administrator. The form
of the security sh;:lll be one or ;:l combin;:ltion of the following to be
determined by the Administrator:
h bond or bondsissl:Jed by one or more corporate sureties duly authorized
to do business in the State of ~4innesota. The form of the bond or bonds
sholl be subject to the approval of the City Attorney;
ti deposit, either with the Administrator or a responsible escrow agent or
trust company at the option of the Administrator, of monc:'f, negotiable
bonds of the kind approved for securing deposits of public monies, or
other instrument of credit from one or more financiell institutions subject
to regulation by the State or Federal government wherein said financial
institution pledges funds ore on deposit and guaranteed for payment; or
cash in U.S. currency.
Subdivision 5. Dccisioft on B PerMit
The Administrator shall mview all doeumentssubmittcd pursuant to tnis.seetion to
determine compliance with the terms hereof. Additional data, clarification of any
submitted. data or correction of any defective submission may be requested within
sixt). (60) working days after the date of submission.
C. Application Review Process and Permit Approval.
1. Pre~Review. The Administrator shall make a determination regarding the
completeness of a permit application within fifteen (15) business days of
the receipt of the application and notify the applicant If the application is
not complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered andAft
application that is deemed by the city to be incemplete shall result in
automatic denial of the permit.
2. Permit ReView and Decision. Both the City and the appropriate watershed
management organizations review permit applications. The Administrator
shall notify the applicant of permit approval or denial within Sixty (60)
days of receipt of a complete application.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 13 of 25
~ 4.31
3. Permit Approval. Upon approval of the application.+the Administrator
shall issue a permit... upon approval of the Grading, Drainage and Erosion
CORtrol Application and, whcrc required, a deposit of appropriate. security
and payment of fees.
4. Permit Denial. If the Administrator determines that the application does
not meet the requirements of this ordinance. the application will be
denied. All land use and building permits shall be suspended until the
applicant has an approved permit.
&5. Plan Modifications. The applicant must amend any submitted plans as
necessary to include additional requirements. such as additional or
modified BMPs designed to correct problems identified. or to address
situations whenever:
a. There is a change in design. construction( operation. maintenance.
weather, or seasonal conditions that has a significant effect on the
discharge of pollutants to surface or ground waters.
b. Inspections or investigations by site operators. local. state or federal
officials indicate the plans are not effective in preventing or
significantly minimizing the discharge of pollutants to. surface.or
ground waters or that the discharges are not meeting water quality
standards: or
c. The plan is not achieving the general objectives of minimizing
pollutants in stormwater discharges associated with construction
activity.
Stdscti,...isioft.6. Permit Dtlratioft
6. Permit Duration. Permits issued under this section shall be valid for the
period during which the proposed land disturbing or filling activities and
soil storage takes place or is scheduled to take place. The permittee shall
commence permitted activities within sixty (60) days of the issuance of
the permit for grading or the permittee shall resubmit all required
application forms, maps, plans, schedules and security to the
Administrator, except where an item to be resubmitted is waived by the
Administrator. The permit will expire or terminate when:
ir. A certificate ofoccupane'( has been Issued; or
Golden Valley City Code
Page 14 of 25
~ 4.31
e.a.
or
The site has been stabilized and approved by the Administrator;
~b.
There has been one hundred eighty (180) days of inactivity.
D. Performance Standards.
LAII grading material and soil however placed on a grading site shall remain
within the limits of the grading site and not travel onto adjacent property,
streets, or other public or private property as dust, mud, chunks, or
otherwise, unless approved by all affected adjacent property owners and the
Administrator.
2. Projects disturbing an area of 10.000 square feet or more shall meet the
current requirements for Construction Erosion and Sediment Control Plans
specified by the BCWMC.
1.3. Projects required to meet "Levell standards" and "Nondegradation
standards" of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission
(BCWMC) shall meet the current design and maintenance requirements for
the proposed BMPs as specified by the BCWMC.
Subcth.-isian 7. Im.,lementatian of Permits Permittee's Duties
The permittee shall comply with all other pr-o....isions of this section including, but
not limited to, the requirements of the following subdivisions.
9oE. F;- Applicant Responsibilities.
1. Inspections. The Applicant is responsible for regular inspections and
record keeping needed to document compliance with the permit
requirements. The City may conduct inspections as needed to ensure that
both erosion and sediment control and stormwater measures are properly
installed and maintained prior to construction. during construction. and at the
completion of the project. Unless this r't:quirement is wai.'ed by the
Administrator, tIhe Applicantpermittcc shall notify the City a minimum of
seventy-two (72) hours prior to the following required .c1.tY-inspection~:
a. Initial Inspection - when all erosion and sediment control BMPs are
installed. This inspection must be completed before a building permit
can be issued.
b. Project Complete Inspection - when the prQject is complete including,
but not limited to, final grading. installation of all stormwat~r
Golden Valley City Code
Page 15 of 25
~ 4.31
management facilities, and final stabilization measures are complete.
One-year warranty begins after inspector approves project.
ih-c. Warranty Inspection - completed one year later to confirm that
permanent site stabilization methods have been successful and
vegetation, has been established.
lh the installation of all tcmporary protcction ;)nd B~4P's bcforcan'f other
work can continuc;
e" rcadincss of the sitc for fin;)1 inspection including, but not limited to,
finished grading, installation of dr;)inagc dcviccs and final stabilization
measures.
2. Reporting. The Applicant pcrmittee shall submit reports to the
Administrator under the following circumstances and shall submit
recommendations for corrective measures, if ncccssary and appropriate, with
such reports..;. unlcss thc rccommendation requircmcnt is waived by the
Administrator.
a. There are delays of more than seven (7) days in obtaining materials,
machinery, services or manpower necessary to the implementation of the
Stormwater Management PlanCrading Plan as scheduled.
b. There are delays of seven (7) days in land disturbing or filling activities or
soil storage.
c. The work is not being done in conformance with the approved Crading
Drilinage and Erosion Control Plan plans and permit. Any changes to the
approved plan must be submitted to the Administrator for review and
approval before work can commence.
3. Right of Entry. The issuance of a permit constitutes a right-of-entry for
the City or its contractor to enter the construction site. The applicant shall
allow the City and its. authorized representatives, to :Thc permittee shall
cause all grading matcrial and soil howevcr"laced on a grading site to
remain within the limits of the grading sitc and not travel ontoadjaeent
property, streets, or ather "ublie or "rivatc "ro"etty as dust, mud, chunks,
or otherwise, unless a""ro'icd by all affected adjacent flro"ctty owners and
the Administtator.
i;l. Enter the permitted site for the purpose of obtaining information,
examlnlngr~eords, c;:onductlng Investigations or surveys:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 16 of 25
~ 4.31
b. Bring such equipment on the site as is necessary to conduct such
surveys and investigations;
c. Examine and copy any books. papers. or digital files pertaining to
activities or records required to be kept under the terms and
conditions of the permitted site;
d. Inspect the stormwater pollution control measures;
e. Sample and monitor any items or activities pertaining to stormwater
pollution control measures:
a.f. Correct deficiencies in storm water and erosion and sediment
control measures.
The permittee sh~1I ~t all times provide access to the site for inspection by
the Administrator.
F.
Financial Security.
1. Amount and Type. The applicant shall provide security for the
performance of the work described and delineated in the approved
permit in an amount not less than one hundred and fifty percent (150%)
of the approved estimated cost of performing the described work. The
type of the security shall be one or a combination of the following to be
determined by the Administrator:
a. Bond or bonds issued by one or more corporate sureties duly
authorized to do business in the State of Minnesota. The form of
the bond .or bonds shall be subject to the approval of the City
Attorney;
b. Deposit, either with the Administrator or a responsible escrow
agent or trust company at the option of the Administrator. of
money. negotiable bonds of the kind approved for securing deposits
of public monies. or other instrument of credit from one or more
financial. institutions subject to regulation by the State or Federal
government wherein said financial institution pledges funds ar~ on
deposit and guaranteed for payment; or
c. Cash in U.S. currency.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 17 of 25
~ 4.31
h2. Release. Security deposited with the City for faithful
performance of the approved plans and to finance necessary remedial
work shall be released one (1) year after final inspection has been
approved by the Administrator. provided no action against such security
has been filed prior to that date. The City reserves the right to retain all
or a percentage of the security for a warranty period at the discretion of
the Administrator.
~3. Reduction of Security. The applicant may have the option to
reduce the security one time within the first twelve (12) months of the
issuance of the Permit. and thereafter. one time within any twelve (12)
month period. which period shall commence on the anniversary date of
the issuance of the permit and shall end on the day preceding the
anniversary date of the issuance of the permit.
G. Enforcement Actions to Ensure Compliance.
1. Orders. The Administrator may issue an order to modify the approved
permit and stipulate a time frame for compliance per Subdivision
4.C.5. The applicant shall comply with said order.
2. Permit Suspension. The Administrator shall suspend the permitand
issue a stop work order if the Administrator determines that the permit
was issued in error. the applicant supplied incorrect information~ or the
applicant is in violation of any provision of the approved plans. the
permit. or this ordinance. The Administrator shall reinstate a
suspended permit upon the applicant's correction of the cause of the
suspension.
3. Construction Stop Work Order. The City Building Official may issue a
stop work order for a related building permit if requested by the
Administrator.
4. Permit Revocation. If the applicant fails or refuses to cease work as
required. the Administrator shall revoke the permit and the applicant
shall be subject to enforcement, penalties. and loss of its financial
security in accordance with terms of Subdivision 4.G.6.of this
Ordinance. The Administrator shall not reinstate a revoked permit.
5. Remedial Corrective Action. The City or a private contractor under
contract with the City may conduct remedial or corrective action on
the project site or adjacent sites affected by project failure or to
Implement actions speCIfied In an order to modify plans ~ndpermlt.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 18 of 25
~ 4.31
The City may charge applicant for all costs associated with correcting
failures or remediating damage from the failures according to the
order including but not limited to, materials, equipment, staff time and
attorney's fees. If payment is not made within thirty (30) days,
payment will be made from the applicant's financial security or, in the
case where no permit was issued, payment will be assessed against
the property.
6. Action Against Financial Security. In any of the following
circumstances, the City shall use funds from the financial security to
finance remedial work undertaken later by the City or a private
contractor under contract to the City, and to reimburse the City for all
direct costs including, but not limited to, staff time and. attorney's fees.
a. The applicant ceases land-disturbing activities and/or filling
activities prior to completion of the Stormwater Management Plan.
b. The applicant fails to conform to the Stormwater Management Plan
as approved or as modified under this Code, and has had his/her
permit revoked under this Code.
c. The techniques utilized under the Stormwater Management Plan fail
within one (1) year of installation, or before final stabilization is
implemented for the site or portions of the site, whichever is later.
d. The Administrator determines that action by the City is necessary
to prevent excessive erosion from occurring on the site
e. The applicant fails to establish wetland buffers as described in the
stormwater permit.
7. Misdemeanor Violation. Any violation of the provisions of this
ordinance or failure to comply with any of its requirements shall
constitute a misdemeanor.
hS. Cumulative Enforcement. The procedures for enforcement
of a permit, as set forth in this ordinance, are cumulative and not
exclusive.
Stlbdivisioft 8. Stlsl'cftsioft or Reyoeatioft of PerMit
Except as othervJisc provided within this code, the following procedures will go,+'ern
suspension or r-cvocation of a. permit.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 19 of 25
94.31
k The Administr~tor sh~1I suspend the permit and issue a stop work order, and
permittee shall cease all work on the Vlork site when:
h The Administr~tor determines th~t the permit was issued in error or on
the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in viol~tion of any ordinance
or regul~tion or the provisions of this ordinance;
ti The permittee fails to submit reports when required under this code;
3-;. Inspection by the Administrator re',,'eals that the work or the work site:
a. is not in eompli~nce with the conditions of this code; or
b. is not in conformity '/.lith the ~pproved Drainage and Erosion Control
Plan, or Certificate of Survey; or
c. is not in compliance with an order to modify the erosion control
measures required pursuant to this code; or
4-; The permittee fails to comply with an order to modify erosion control
measures within the time limits imposed by the Administrator.
&;, The City Building Official may issue ~ stop work order for a rdated building
permit if requested by the Administr~tor.
~ If permittee fails Of f'Cfuses to cease work as required, the Administrator or
Building Official shall revoke the permit and the permittee shall be subject to
enforcement, penalties and loss of its security in accordance v;ith terms of
Subd. 9 of this section.
t:h The Administrator shall r'Cinstate a suspended permit upon permittee's
correction of the cause of the suspension.
Eo- The Administrator shall not r'Cinstate a re'iokedpermit.
Stll,division 9. Enforcement And Penalties
k Violation. Any '1iolatian of the provisions af this ordinance ar failuf(: to camply
with any of its requirements shall constitute a misdcmeanar.
S. Action Against. Financial Security. In any of the following cir<:umstances the
city shall use funds from the financial security to finance remedial work
undertaken later by the City or a private contFactof under cantract to the
Golden Valley City Code
Page 20 of 25
94.31
City, and to reimburse the City for all direct costs including, but not limited
to, st~ff time and ~ttorne't"sfees. The circumstances ~re:
h The permittee ce~ses land disturbing ~cti'lities ~nd/or filling site prior to
completion of the Grading Plan.
~ The permittee fails to conform to the Gr~ding, Drain~ge and Erosion
Control Plan as appro'led or as modified under this Code, and has had
his/her permit revoked under this Code.
~ The techniGJues utilized under the Gr~ding, Drainage and Erosion Control
PI~n f~i1 within one (1) ye~r of installation, or before final stabilization is
implemented forthe site or portions of the site, whichever is later.
4;-. The Administrator determines th;)t action by the City is necessary to
prevent excessive. erosion from occurring on.the site.
G-. Reduction of Security. The permittee may have the option to reduce the
security one time within each permitted year.
Go Cumulative Enforcement. The procedures for enforcement of a permit, as set
forth in this ordinance, ;)re cumulative and not cxclusivc.
SaUFCC: Ordinance ^~. 198, ~ Series
Effective Date: 5 13 99
Subdivision 5. General Performance Standards
A. Lowest Floor Elevation. The lowest floor elevation of all new principal and
accessory structures. and additions to existing structures. shall be at least
two feet above the calculated high water level of adjacent wetlands. basins
and stormwater management facilities. or be structurally flood proofed in
accordance with Section 11.60 of the City Code. Calculated high water levels
shall be determined by the City based on the relevant federal. state. BCWMC.
and City studies.
B. Setbacks.. New principal structures shall be setback 25 feet from a delineated
wetland edge or the top of bank of a stormwater management facility.
C. Buffers. New development. redevelopment.. or any building expanslon.by ten
percent or gre~ter In any zoning district shall create or restore buffers around
any wetlands or stormwater facilities that exist on the property on which any
permitted project Is located.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 21 of 25
~ 4.31
1. Exemptions to the buffer requirement include:
a. Additions to existing principal structures in single family or
moderate density residential zoning districts.
b. New accessory structures being less than 400 square feet in
single family or moderate density residential zoning districts.
h2. The following standards shall guide the creation or
restoration of buffers to achieve the goals and policies of the City's
Surface Water Management Plan. The Administrator may modify
standards depending on each project site and goals for the wetland.
a. Buffer strips shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet in width
beginning at the delineated wetland edge or top of bank of the
stormwater management facility. The use of a meandering
buffer strip to maintain a natural appearance is encouraged in
areas of flat topography.
b. An access corridor. not to exceed twenty (20) feet in width or
twenty (20) percent of the buffer edge. whichever is less. is
permitted.
c. Accessory structures intended to provide access to wetlands
such as stairways and docks are permitted in the access
corridor.
d. The buffer shall be placed in a conservation easement
dedicated to the City and recorded with Hennepin County.
e. Monuments identifying the conservation easement. designed in
accordance with City standards. shall be placed every 100 feet
to delineate the buffer edge and at Intersections with property
lines.
f. Buffer strip vegetation shall be appropriate to the goals for the
water body. Where acceptable. natural vegetation exists In
buffer strip areas. the retention of such vegetation In an
undisturbed state is preferred. The Minnesota PCA's manual
"Plants for St9rmwater Design: Species Selection for the Upper
Midwest" provides guidance on buffer plant selection.
D. Maintenance of Private Stormwater Facilities.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 22 of25
94.31
1. No private stormwater facilities may be approved unless a
maintenance plan is provided and is consistent with City and/or
BCWMC and MCWD standards. All private stormwater facilities shall be
inspected annually, with reports submitted to the City, and maintained
in proper condition consistent with the performance standards for
which they were originally designed.
2. Owners of private stormwater facilities shall enter into an agreement
with the City describing responsibility for the long-term operation and
maintenance of the stormwater facilities.
Subdivision 6. Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control
A. Illegal Disposal.
1. Discarded Materials. No person shall throw r depositr place, leave,
maintain, or keep or permit to be thrown, placed. left, maintained or
kept, any refuse. rubbish, garbage, or any other discarded or
abandoned objects, articles, or accumulations, in or upon any street,
alley, sidewalk. storm drain, inlet, catch basin conduit or drainage
structure, business place, or upon any public or private plot of land in
the City, so that the same might be or become a pollutant, except in
containers. recycling bags, or other lawfully established waste disposal
facility.
2. Landscape Debris. No person shall dispose of leavesr dirt, or other
landscape debris into a street, road. alleYr catch basin, culvert, curb,
gutterr inlet, ditch, natural watercourse, flood control channel. canal,
storm drain or any fabricated natural conveyance.
B. Illegal Disch?lrges and Illicit Connections. No person shall cause any illegal
discharge to enter the municipal stormwater system unless such discharge:
1. consists of non-stormwater that is authorized by an NPDES point
source permit obtained from the MPCA:or
2. is associated with fire fighting activities. No person sh?lll use an iIilclt
c;:onnectlon to Int~ntlonally convey non-stormw~t~r to the City
stormwater. system.
C. Good Housekeeping Provisions. Any owner or occupant of property within
the City shall comply with the following good housekeeping requirements:
Golden Valley City Code Page 23 of 25
~ 4.31
1. Chemical or Septic Waste. No person shall leave. deposit. discharge.
dump. or otherwise expose any chemical or septic waste in an area
where discharge to streets or storm drain systems may occur. This
section shall. apply to both actual and potential discharges. For
swimming pools. water should be allowed to sit for seven (7) days to
allow for chlorine to evaporate before discharge to the sanitary sewer
system. If fungicides have been used. water must be tested and
approved for discharge to the waste water treatment plant.
2. Runoff Minimized. Runoff of water from residential property shall be
minimized to the maximum extent practicable. . Runoff of water from
the washing down of paved areas in commercial or industrial property
is prohibited unless necessary for health or safety purposes and not in
violation of any other provision of the City's Code.
3. Storage of Materials. Machinery. and Equipment. Materials or
equipment shall be stored to limit risk of contamination by runoff.
a. Objects. such as motor vehicle parts. containing grease. oil or
other hazardous substances. and unsealed receptacles
containing hazardous materials. shall not be stored in areas
susceptible to runoff.
b. Any machinery or equipment which is to be repaired or
maintained in areas susceptible to runoff shall be placed in a
confined area to contain leaks. spills. or discharges
D. Removal of Debris and Residue.
1. All motor vehicle parking lots located in areas susceptible to runoff
shall be kept clean of debris and residues. Such debris ~nd residue
shall be collected and disposed of in accordance with law .
2. Fuel.and chemical residue or other types of potentially harmful
material. such as animal waste. garbage or batteries. which are
located in an area susceptible to runoff, shall be removed as soon as
possible and disposed of properly. Household hazardous waste may be
disposed of through the County collection program or at any other
appropriate disposal site and shall not be placed in a trash container.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 24 of 25
~ 4.31
Subdivision 7. ResDonsibilitv for Stormwater Drainage on Private
Propertv
A. Responsibility. Property owners are responsible for storm water drainage on
private property. The City assumes responsibility for drainage when
stormwater runoff enters the City's right-of-way or storm sewer system.
B. Technical Assistance. Upon written request. the. City may provide technical
assistance to investigate or correct a drainage problem on private property.
C. Petition. Property owners may petition the City for public improvements to
correct a drainage problem on private property.
A.D. Costs. Property owners are responsible for paying all costs associated
with correcting drainage problems including City staff time. consultant costs.
legal fees. and design and construction costs.
&-E. Assessment. Project costs will be assessed to each property
contributing flow to the problem area in accordance with Minn. Statute 429
and pursuant to the City's Assessment policy.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 25 of 25
94.31
Section 4.31:
Stormwater Management
Subdivision 1. Statutory Authorization and Purpose
A. Statutory Authorization. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to the
authorization and policies contained in Minnesota Statutes Chapters 103B
and 462.
B. Findings. The City of Golden Valley finds that uncontrolled stormwater runoff
and construction site erosion from land development and land disturbing
activities can have significant adverse impacts upon local and regional water
resources, diminishing the quality of public health, safety, public and private
property and natural resources of the community.
C. Purpose. The general purpose of this ordinance is to establish regulatory
requirements for land development and land disturbing activities aimed at
minimizing the threats to public health, safety, public and private property
and natural resources within the community resulting from construction site
erosion and post-construction stormwater runoff.
Subdivision 2. General Provisions and Definitions
A. Responsibility. Neither the issuance of a stormwater management permit nor
compliance with its conditions or the provisions of this ordinance, shall
relieve any person from any responsibility otherwise imposed by law for
damages to persons or properties, nor shall the issuance of any permit
hereunder serve to impose any liability on the municipality or its officers or
employees for injury or damage to persons or property. A permit issued
pursuant to this ordinance shall not relieve the permittee of the responsibility
of complying with any other requirements established by law, regulation or
ordinances.
B. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not the intention of this ordinance
to repeal or abrogate any existing grading, drainage and erosion control or
stormwater management policies or permits issued under pre-existing
Section 4.31, which permits shall continue in full force and effect; however,
where this section imposes greater restrictions, the provisions of this section
shall prevail.
C. Compatibility and Compliance with other Regulations. This ordinance is not
intended to modify or repeal any other ordinance, rule, regulation or other
provision of law. The requirements of this ordinance are in addition to the
requirements of any other ordinance, rule, regulation or other provision of
Golden Valley City Code
Page 1 of 17
94.31
law, and where any provision of this ordinance imposes restrictions different
from those imposed by any other ordinance, rule, regulation or other
provision of law, whichever provision is more restrictive or imposes higher
protective standards shall control.
D. Application to all Water Entering System. This ordinance shall apply to all
water entering the City's stormwater management system from any land
within the City.
E. Responsibility for Administration and Waivers. The Administrator shall
administer, implement, and enforce the provisions of this ordinance. Any
powers granted or duties imposed upon the Administrator by this ordinance
may be delegated to persons or entities acting in the interest of the City. The
Administrator may waive any submittal or administrative requirement that
will not adversely affect achievement of the purpose, goals and performance
standards of this ordinance.
F. Definitions. Terms not defined in this section shall have the meaning
customarily assigned to them as a matter of general usage. For the purposes
of this section, the words "must" and "shall" are mandatory and not
permissive.
1. Administrator: The individual responsible for overseeing the
requirements of the City Code for purposes of this section of this code;
the administrator shall be the City Engineer or his/her designee.
2. Alteration: Any change or modification of land, water, vegetation or
existing structures.
3. Applicant: A permittee, or any person or entity that applies for any
permit for a project that includes a land disturbing activity. Applicant also
means that person's agents, employees, and others acting under that
person's direction.
4. Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission or BCWMC:
The watershed management organization established by a joint powers
agreement between nine member cities including the City of Golden
Valley. The BCWMC is responsible for managing water resources within
the 40 square mile Bassett Creek watershed. Most of the City of Golden
Valley is located within the Bassett Creek watershed.
5. Best Management Practices or BMPs: Erosion and sediment control
and water quality management practices that are the most effective and
practicable means of controlling, preventing, and minimizing degradation
of surface water, including construction-phasing, minimizing the length of
time soil areas are exposed, prohibitions, and other management
practices published by state or designated areawide planning agencies.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 2 of 17
94.31
Examples of BMPs can be found in Protecting Water Quality in Urban
Areas, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency 2000, Minnesota Urban Small
Sites BMP Manual, Metropolitan Council 2001, State of Minnesota
Stormwater Manual, MPCA 2005, Storm Water Management for
Construction Activities: Developing Pollution Prevention Plans and Best
Management Practices, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 1992, and
Erosion Control Handbook, Minnesota Department of Transportation2002.
6. Calculated high water level: The peak elevation calculated for a 100-
year precipitation or snowmelt runoff event.
7. Development: The construction, installation or alteration of any
structure; the extraction, filling, clearing or other alteration of land or
vegetation; the change of cross section of any water body of watercourse;
the subdivision of land pursuant to the City Code.
8. Earth Material: Any rock, natural soil or fill or combination thereof.
9. Erosion: The wearing away of soil by rainfall, surface water runoff, wind,
or ice movement.
10.Erosion Control: Methods employed to prevent erosion. Examples
include soil stabilization practices, horizontal slope grading, temporary or
permanent cover, and construction phasing.
l1.Final Stabilization: The establishment of permanent cover on the entire
site.
12.Floodplain: Those areas within the City which include the beds proper
and the areas adjoining Bassett Creek or its tributaries, which have been,
or hereafter may be, covered by a regional flood.
13. Grade: The vertical location of the ground surface.
14. Grading: Any land disturbance or landfill, or combination thereof.
15. Illicit Connections: An illicit connection is defined as either of the
following:
a. Any drain or conveyance, whether on the surface or subsurface, which
allows an illegal discharge to enter the storm drain system, including but
not limited to any conveyance which allows any non-stormwater discharge
including sewage, process wastewater, and wash water to enter the storm
drain system and any connections to the storm drain system from indoor
drains and sinks, except discharges from sump pits, regardless of whether
said drain or connection had been previously allowed, permitted, or
approved by an authorized enforcement agency; or
Golden Valley City Code Page 3 of 17
94.31
b. Any drain or conveyance connected from a residential, commercial or
industrial land use to the storm drain system, which has not been
documented in plans, maps, or equivalent records and approved by an
authorized enforcement agency.
16. Land Disturbance or Land-Disturbing Activities: Any land change
that may result in soil erosion from water or wind and the movement of
sediments into or upon waters or lands. This may include, but is not
limited to, a disturbance that results in a change in topography, or
disturbance of the existing soil cover (both vegetative and non-
vegetative). Land-disturbing activities include clearing and grubbing,
grading, excavating, transporting earth material and filling of land for all
new construction and redevelopment. Activities that do not meet the
thresholds for projects identified in Subdivision 4. A. are not considered
land-disturbing activities.
17. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District or MCWD: The MCWD issues
permits for erosion control and stormwater management facilities in a
small area of the City south of Interstate 394 and east of Highway 100.
18. National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System or NPDES
program: The program for issuing, modifying, revoking, reissuing,
terminating, monitoring, and enforcing permits under the Clean Water
Act, Sections 301,318, 402, and 405 and United States Code of Federal
Regulations Title 33, Sections 1317, 1328, 1342, and 1345.
19. Owner: Includes fee owner, contract purchaser, and lessee for whom
construction is being undertaken.
20. Permanent Cover: Final stabilization. Examples include grass, native
vegetation, landscape rock, mulch, asphalt, and concrete.
21. Permit: An official document or certificate issued by the City of Golden
Valley authorizing performance of a specified activity.
22. Permittee: An applicant or any person or entity who signs the application
submitted to the City and is responsible for compliance with its terms and
conditions.
23. Regional Flood: A flood which is representative of large floods known to
have occurred generally in Minnesota, and reasonably characteristic of
what can be expected to occur on an average frequency in the magnitude
of the one hundred (100)-year recurrence interval.
24. Sediment: The product of an erosion process; solid material both mineral
and organic, that is in suspension, is being transported, or has been
Golden Valley City Code
Page 4 of 17
94.31
moved by water, air, or ice, and has come to rest on the earth's surface
either above or below water level.
25. Sediment Control: Methods employed to prevent sediment from leaving
the site. Sediment control practices include silt fences, sediment traps,
earth dikes, drainage swales, check dams, subsurface drainpipe slope
drains, storm drain inlet protection, and temporary or permanent
sedimentation basins.
26. Site: A parcel or parcels of real property owned by one or more than one
(1) person, which is being or is capable of being developed as a single
project.
27. Soil: The unconsolidated mineral and organic mineral material on the
immediate surface of the earth.
28. Stabilized: The exposed ground surface has been covered by staked sod,
riprap, wood fiber blanket, or other material, which prevents erosion from
occurring. Ground surface which has been seeded is not stabilized.
29. Stormwater: Precipitation runoff, stormwater runoff, snowmelt runoff,
and any other surface runoff and drainage. Stormwater does not include
construction site dewatering and sump discharge.
30. Stormwater Management Plan. A plan which describes how
stormwater runoff and associated water quantity and water quality
impacts resulting from the proposed development project will be
controlled and managed. The plan must show the location and type of
management practices or equivalent measures designed to control surface
runoff and erosion and to retain sediment on a particular site during the
period in which pre-construction and construction-related land
disturbances, fills and soil storage occur, and after all other planned
structures and permanent improvements have been erected or installed.
Unless waived by the Administrator, the plan must be signed by a
licensed professional engineer ("PE") or landscape architect, who will
verify that the design of all stormwater management practices meets the
requirements of the City's Surface Water Management Plan ("SWMP"), the
requirements of this ordinance, and the requirements of the appropriate
watershed management organization.
31. Stormwater Management System: The combined public and private
systems of collecting, conveying, storing and treating stormwater runoff.
The system includes a wide variety of components including, but not
limited to, streets, curbs, gutters, ponds, catch basins, pipes, natural and
constructed drainageways, infiltration basins, lakes and creeks.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 5 of 17
S 4.31
32. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan or SWPPP: A plan for
stormwater discharge that includes erosion prevention measures and
sediment controls that, when implemented, will decrease soil erosion on a
parcel of land and decrease off site nonpoint pollution.
33. Sump Discharge: Water that has been filtered through the ground or soil
layers resulting in clear water. Sump discharge is not considered
stormwater.
34. Surface Waters: All streams, lakes, ponds, marshes, wetlands,
reservoirs, springs, rivers, drainage systems, waterways, and
watercourses, whether natural or artificial, public or private.
35. Temporary Erosion Protection: Methods employed to prevent erosion
before final stabilization. Examples include; erosion netting, wood fiber
blanket, wood chips and silt fence.
36. Wetlands: Wetlands are defined in Minn. R. 7055.0130, Subp. F and
includes those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or
ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that
under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally
include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
Subdivision 3. Permit Authority for Land-Disturbing Activities
A. City of Golden Valley. The City of Golden Valley is the permitting authority
for land disturbing activities within the boundaries of the BCWMC and the
MCWD. The City may issue a Stormwater Management Permit approving land
disturbing activities in these areas.
B. Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC). Although the
BCWMC is not a permitting authority, it has the authority to review and
approve projects listed in the document "Requirements for Improvements
and Development Proposals." Such projects must comply with BCWMC
guidelines, policies, standards and requirements. The BCWMC will review the
applicant's submittal only after the project has received preliminary review
by the City indicating general compliance with existing local watershed
management plans.
C. Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD). The MCWD is the permitting
authority for land disturbing activities in excess of five thousand square feet
(5,000 sq ft) within the MCWD boundaries. Where required, the MCWD
permit is in addition to a permit required by the City of Golden Valley.
D. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). The MPCA is the permitting
authority for land disturbing activities requiring an NPDES permit for
Golden Valley City Code
Page 6 of 17
94.31
construction activity, including the requirements for developing and
implementing a SWPPP. Where required, the NPDES permit is in addition to
permits required by the City of Golden Valley and the MCWD.
Subdivision 4. City of Golden Valley Stormwater Management Permit
A. Activities Requiring a City of Golden Valley Stormwater Management Permit.
1. Land-disturbing activities which remove soils or vegetation, including but
not limited to clearing, digging, dredging, draining or filling. Any of the
following activities shall require a Stormwater Management Permit:
a. Any land disturbing activities which remove soils or vegetation in
excess of four thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft).
b. Any activity requiring a building permit that would involve installation,
demolition, modification or expansion of a building foundation wall,
including swimming pools and retaining walls.
c. Any land disturbing activities within City right-of-way that have a
duration greater than seventy-two (72) hours.
d. Cutting, filling, disposal, hauling in, or storage of more than 30 cubic
yards of material.
e. Installation of underground utilities including sanitary sewer, water,
storm sewer, gas, electric, cable, fiber optic and telephone.
f. Construction, reclamation, expansion, removal or modification of a
parking lot.
g. Construction, expansion or modification of a stormwater quality
treatment facility or stormwater BMPs.
h. Any land disturbing activities within the 100-year floodplain or
calculated high water level of any water body, or immediately adjacent
to any wetland or public water body, including shoreline restoration
and creek bank stabilization.
i. Those activities required to meet "Levell standards" and
"Nondegradation standards" of the BCWMC as set forth in the current
version of BCWMC's Requirements for Improvements and Development
Proposals as amended from time to time.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 7 of 17
94.31
2. The following activities may be undertaken without a Stormwater
Management Permit:
a. Maintenance of existing yards.
b. Emergency work to preserve life or property.
B. Application Submittal Requirements. Each City of Golden Valley Stormwater
Management Permit application shall include the following items unless
waived by the Administrator. Two sets of plans and supporting
documentation and one electronic copy of the plans and supporting
documentation shall be submitted with each application.
1. Completed application forms and fees required by the City and BCWMC.
2. Provision made for financial securities as required in Subdivision 4(F).
3. Copies of permits or permit applications required by other jurisdictions.
4. Existing site conditions on a certified survey, prepared to City standards
and including existing topography, easements, vegetation and drainage.
5. Stormwater Management Plan and Narrative. Plans prepared to City
standards including:
a. Project description - The nature and purpose of the land-disturbing
activity and the amount of grading involved.
b. Phasing of construction - The proposed stages of grading, utilities, and
building construction.
c. Adjacent areas - A minimum of one hundred (100) feet beyond the
project site boundaries including neighboring streams, lakes,
residential areas, roads, etc., which might be affected by the
land-disturbing activity.
d. Erosion and sediment control measures - Methods to be used to
control erosion and sedimentation on the site, both during and after
the construction process.
e. Permanent cover - How the site will be stabilized after construction is
completed, including specifications.
f. Maintenance - Schedule of regular inspections and repair of erosion
and sediment control structures.
Golden Valley City Code
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94.31
g. A narrative describing the nature and purpose of the land-disturbing
activities, the amount of grading involved and other project
information describing activities on the above identified maps.
6. Soil Engineering Report.
7. Engineering Geology Report.
8. Work schedule
9. Tree Preservation Plan.
10.A Wetland Buffer and Planting Plan.
11. Construction plans and specifications for all proposed permanent stormwater
management facilities.
12.AII hydrologic, hydraulic, and other computations necessary to design the
proposed stormwater management facilities.
13.AII exhibits required by BCWMC.
14.Any supplementary material required by the Administrator.
lS.Estimate of costs necessary to execute the Stormwater Management Plan.
C. Application Review Process and Permit Approval.
1. Pre-Review. The Administrator shall make a determination regarding the
completeness of a permit application within fifteen (15) business days of
the receipt of the application and notify the applicant if the application is
not complete. Incomplete applications will not be considered and shall
result in automatic denial of the permit.
2. Permit Review and Decision. Both the City and the appropriate watershed
management organizations review permit applications. The Administrator
shall notify the applicant of permit approval or denial within sixty (60)
days of receipt of a complete application.
3. Permit Approval. Upon approval of the application, the Administrator shall
issue a permit.
4. Permit Denial. If the Administrator determines that the application does
not meet the requirements of this ordinance, the application will be
denied. All land use and building permits shall be suspended until the
applicant has an approved permit.
Golden Valley City Code
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94.31
5. Plan Modifications. The applicant must amend any submitted plans as
necessary to include additional requirements, such as additional or
modified BMPs designed to correct problems identified, or to address
situations whenever:
a. There is a change in design, construction, operation, maintenance,
weather, or seasonal conditions that has a significant effect on the
discharge of pollutants to surface or ground waters.
b. Inspections or investigations by site operators, local, state or federal
officials indicate the plans are not effective in preventing or
significantly minimizing the discharge of pollutants to surface or
ground waters or that the discharges are not meeting water quality
standards; or
c. The plan is not achieving the general objectives of minimizing
pollutants in stormwater discharges associated with construction
activity.
..
6. Permit Duration. Permits issued under this section shall be valid for the
period during which the proposed land disturbing or filling activities and
soil storage takes place or is scheduled to take place. The permittee shall
commence permitted activities within sixty (60) days of the issuance of
the permit for grading or the permittee shall resubmit all required
application forms, maps, plans, schedules and security to the
Administrator, except where an item to be resubmitted is waived by the
Administrator. The permit will expire or terminate when:
a. The site has been stabilized and approved by the Administrator; or
b. There has been one hundred eighty (180) days of inactivity.
D. Performance Standards.
1. All grading material and soil however placed on a grading site shall
remain within the limits of the grading site and not travel onto adjacent
property, streets, or other public or private property as dust, mud,
chunks, or otherwise, unless approved by all affected adjacent property
owners and the Administrator.
2. Projects disturbing an area of 10,000 square feet or more shall meet the
current requirements for Construction Erosion and Sediment Control Plans
specified by the BCWMC.
3. Projects required to meet "Levell standards" and "Nondegradation
standards" of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission
Golden Valley City Code
Page 10 of 17
94.31
(BCWMC) shall meet the current design and maintenance requirements
for the proposed BMPs as specified by the BCWMC.
E. Applicant Responsibilities.
1. Inspections. The Applicant is responsible for regular inspections and
record keeping needed to document compliance with the permit
requirements. The City may conduct inspections as needed to ensure that
both erosion and sediment control and stormwater measures are properly
installed and maintained prior to construction, during construction, and at
the completion of the project. The Applicant shall notify the City a
minimum of seventy-two (72) hours prior to the following required City
inspections:
a. Initial Inspection - when all erosion and sediment control BMPs are
installed. This inspection must be completed before a building permit
can be issued.
b. Project Complete Inspection - when the project is complete including,
but not limited to, final grading, installation of all stormwater
management facilities, and final stabilization measures are complete.
One-year warranty begins after inspector approves project.
c. Warranty Inspection - completed one year later to confirm that
permanent site stabilization methods have been successful and
vegetation, has been established.
2. Reporting. The Applicant shall submit reports to the Administrator under
the following circumstances and shall submit recommendations for
corrective measures, if appropriate, with such reports:
a. There are delays of more than seven (7) days in obtaining materials,
machinery, services or manpower necessary to the implementation of
the Stormwater Management Plan as scheduled.
b. There are delays of seven (7) days in land disturbing or filling activities
or soil storage.
c. The work is not being done in conformance with the approved plans
and permit. Any changes to the approved plan must be submitted to
the Administrator for review and approval before work can commence.
3. Right of Entry. The issuance of a permit constitutes a right-of-entry for
the City or its contractor to enter the construction site. The applicant
shall allow the City and its authorized representatives, to:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 11 of 17
S 4.31
a. Enter the permitted site for the purpose of obtaining information,
examining records, conducting investigations or surveys;
b. Bring such equipment on the site as is necessary to conduct such
surveys and investigations;
c. Examine and copy any books, papers, or digital files pertaining to
activities or records required to be kept under the terms and
conditions of the permitted site;
d. Inspect the stormwater pollution control measures;
e. Sample and monitor any items or activities pertaining to stormwater
pollution control measures;
f. Correct deficiencies in stormwater and erosion and sediment control
measures.
F. Financial Security.
1. Amount and Type. The applicant shall provide security for the
performance of the work described and delineated in the approved permit
in an amount not less than one hundred and fifty percent (150%) of the
approved estimated cost of performing the described work. The type of
the security shall be one or a combination of the following to be
determined by the Administrator:
a. Bond or bonds issued by one or more corporate sureties duly
authorized to do business in the State of Minnesota. The form of the
bond or bonds shall be subject to the approval of the City Attorney;
b. Deposit, either with the Administrator or a responsible escrow agent or
trust company at the option of the Administrator, of money, negotiable
bonds of the kind approved for securing deposits of public monies, or
other instrument of credit from one or more financial institutions
subject to regulation by the State or Federal government wherein said
financial institution pledges funds are on deposit and guaranteed for
payment; or
c. Cash in U.S. currency.
2. Release. Security deposited with the City for faithful performance of the
approved plans and to finance necessary remedial work shall be released
one (1) year after final inspection has been approved by the
Administrator, provided no action against such security has been filed
prior to that date. The City reserves the right to retain all or a percentage
Golden Valley City Code
Page 12 of 17
94.31
of the security for a warranty period at the discretion of the
Administrator.
3. Reduction of Security. The applicant may have the option to reduce the
security one time within the first twelve (12) months of the issuance of
the Permit, and thereafter, one time within any twelve (12) month period,
which period shall commence on the anniversary date of the issuance of
the permit and shall end on the day preceding the anniversary date of the
issuance of the permit.
G. Enforcement Actions to Ensure Compliance.
1. Orders. The Administrator may issue an order to modify the approved
permit and stipulate a time frame for compliance per Subdivision 4.C.5.
The applicant shall comply with said order.
2. Permit Suspension. The Administrator shall suspend the permit and issue
a stop work order if the Administrator determines that the permit was
issued in error, the applicant supplied incorrect information, or the
applicant is in violation of any provision of the approved plans, the permit,
or this ordinance. The Administrator shall reinstate a suspended permit
upon the applicant's correction of the cause of the suspension.
3. Construction Stop Work Order. The City Building Official may issue a stop
work order for a related building permit if requested by the Administrator.
4. Permit Revocation. If the applicant fails or refuses to cease work as
required, the Administrator shall revoke the permit and the applicant shall
be subject to enforcement, penalties, and loss of its financial security in
accordance with terms of Subdivision 4.G.6. of this Ordinance. The
Administrator shall not reinstate a revoked permit.
5. Remedial Corrective Action. The City or a private contractor under
contract with the City may conduct remedial or corrective action on the
project site or adjacent sites affected by project failure or to implement
actions specified in an order to modify plans and permit. The City may
charge applicant for all costs associated with correcting failures or
remediating damage from the failures according to the order including but
not limited to, materials, equipment, staff time and attorney's fees. If
payment is not made within thirty (30) days, payment will be made from
the applicant's financial security or, in the case where no permit was
issued, payment will be assessed against the property.
6. Action Against Financial Security. In any of the following circumstances,
the City shall use funds from the financial security to finance remedial
work undertaken later by the City or a private contractor under contract
Golden Valley City Code
Page 13 of 17
~ 4.31
to the City, and to reimburse the City for all direct costs including, but not
limited to, staff time and attorney's fees.
a. The applicant ceases land-disturbing activities and/or filling activities
prior to completion of the Stormwater Management Plan.
b. The applicant fails to conform to the Stormwater Management Plan as
approved or as modified under this Code, and has had his/her permit
revoked under this Code.
c. The techniques utilized under the Stormwater Management Plan fail
within one (1) year of installation, or before final stabilization is
implemented for the site or portions of the site, whichever is later.
d. The Administrator determines that action by the City is necessary to
prevent excessive erosion from occurring on the site
e. The applicant fails to establish wetland buffers as described in the
stormwater permit.
7. Misdemeanor Violation. Any violation of the provisions of this ordinance or
failure to comply with any of its requirements shall constitute a
misdemeanor.
8. Cumulative Enforcement. The procedures for enforcement of a permit, as
set forth in this ordinance, are cumulative and not exclusive.
Subdivision 5. General Performance Standards
A. Lowest Floor Elevation. The lowest floor elevation of all new principal and
accessory structures, and additions to existing structures, shall be at least
two feet above the calculated high water level of adjacent wetlands, basins
and stormwater management facilities, or be structurally flood proofed in
accordance with Section 11.60 of the City Code. Calculated high water levels
shall be determined by the City based on the relevant federal, state, BCWMC,
and City studies.
B. Setbacks. New principal structures shall be setback 25 feet from a delineated
wetland edge or the top of bank of a stormwater management facility.
C. Buffers. New development, redevelopment, or any building expansion by ten
percent or greater in any zoning district shall create or restore buffers around
any wetlands or stormwater facilities that exist on the property on which any
permitted project is located.
1. Exemptions to the buffer requirement include:
Golden Valley City Code
Page 14 of 17
94.31
a. Additions to existing principal structures in single family or moderate
density residential zoning districts.
b. New accessory structures being less than 400 square feet in single
family or moderate density residential zoning districts.
2. The following standards shall guide the creation or restoration of buffers
to achieve the goals and policies of the City's Surface Water Management
Plan. The Administrator may modify standards depending on each project
site and goals for the wetland.
a. Buffer strips shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet in width beginning at
the delineated wetland edge or top of bank of the stormwater
management facility. The use of a meandering buffer strip to maintain
a natural appearance is encouraged in areas of flat topography.
b. An access corridor, not to exceed twenty (20) feet in width or twenty
(20) percent of the buffer edge, whichever is less, is permitted.
c. Accessory structures intended to provide access to wetlands such as
stairways and docks are permitted in the access corridor.
d. The buffer shall be placed in a conservation easement dedicated to the
City and recorded with Hennepin County.
e. Monuments identifying the conservation easement, designed in
accordance with City standards, shall be placed every 100 feet to
delineate the buffer edge and at intersections with property lines.
f. Buffer strip vegetation shall be appropriate to the goals for the water
body. Where acceptable natural vegetation exists in buffer strip areas,
the retention of such vegetation in an undisturbed state is preferred.
The Minnesota PCA's manual "Plants for Stormwater Design: Species
Selection for the Upper Midwest" provides guidance on buffer plant
selection.
D. Maintenance of Private Stormwater Facilities.
1. No private stormwater facilities may be approved unless a maintenance
plan is provided and is consistent with City and/or BCWMC and MCWD
standards. All private stormwater facilities shall be inspected annually,
with reports submitted to the City, and maintained in proper condition
consistent with the performance standards for which they were originally
designed.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 15 of 17
94.31
2. Owners of private stormwater facilities shall enter into an agreement with
the City describing responsibility for the long-term operation and
maintenance of the stormwater facilities.
Subdivision 6. Stormwater and Urban Runoff Pollution Control
A. Illegal Disposal.
1. Discarded Materials. No person shall throw, deposit, place, leave,
maintain, or keep or permit to be thrown, placed, left, maintained or kept,
any refuse, rubbish, garbage, or any other discarded or abandoned
objects, articles, or accumulations, in or upon any street, alley, sidewalk,
storm drain, inlet, catch basin conduit or drainage structure, business
place, or upon any public or private plot of land in the City, so that the
same might be or become a pollutant, except in containers, recycling
bags, or other lawfully established waste disposal facility.
2. Landscape Debris. No person shall dispose of leaves, dirt, or other
landscape debris into a street, road, alley, catch basin, culvert, curb,
gutter, inlet, ditch, natural watercourse, flood control channel, canal,
storm drain or any fabricated natural conveyance.
B. Illegal Discharges and Illicit Connections. No person shall cause any illegal
discharge to enter the municipal stormwater system unless such discharge:
1. consists of non-stormwater that is authorized by an NPDES point source
permit obtained from the MPCA; or
2. is associated with fire fighting activities. No person shall use an illicit
connection to intentionally convey non-stormwater to the City stormwater
system.
C. Good Housekeeping Provisions. Any owner or occupant of property within
the City shall comply with the following good housekeeping requirements:
1. Chemical or Septic Waste. No person shall leave, deposit, discharge,
dump, or otherwise expose any chemical or septic waste in an area where
discharge to streets or storm drain systems may occur. This section shall
apply to both actual and potential discharges. For swimming pools, water
should be allowed to sit for seven (7) days to allow for chlorine to
evaporate before discharge to the sanitary sewer system. If fungicides
have been used, water must be tested and approved for discharge to the
waste water treatment plant.
2. Runoff Minimized. Runoff of water from residential property shall be
minimized to the maximum extent practicable. Runoff of water from the
washing down of paved areas in commercial or industrial property is
Golden Valley City Code
Page 16 of 17
94.31
prohibited unless necessary for health or safety purposes and not in
violation of any other provision of the City's Code.
3. Storage of Materials, Machinery, and Equipment. Materials or equipment
shall be stored to limit risk of contamination by runoff.
a. Objects, such as motor vehicle parts, containing grease, oil or other
hazardous substances, and unsealed receptacles containing hazardous
materials, shall not be stored in areas susceptible to runoff.
b. Any machinery or equipment which is to be repaired or maintained in
areas susceptible to runoff shall be placed in a confined area to contain
leaks, spills, or discharges
D. Removal of Debris and Residue.
1. All motor vehicle parking lots located in areas susceptible to runoff shall
be kept clean of debris and residues. Such debris and residue shall be
collected and disposed of in accordance with law.
2. Fuel and chemical residue or other types of potentially harmful material,
such as animal waste, garbage or batteries, which are located in an area
susceptible to runoff, shall be removed as soon as possible and disposed
of properly. Household hazardous waste may be disposed of through the
County collection program or at any other appropriate disposal site and
shall not be placed in a trash container.
Subdivision 7. Responsibility for Stormwater Drainage on Private
Property
A. Responsibility. Property owners are responsible for storm water drainage on
private property. The City assumes responsibility for drainage when
stormwater runoff enters the City's right-of-way or storm sewer system.
B. Technical Assistance. Upon written request, the City may provide technical
assistance to investigate or correct a drainage problem on private property.
C. Petition. Property owners may petition the City for public improvements to
correct a drainage problem on private property.
D. Costs. Property owners are responsible for paying all costs associated with
correcting drainage problems including City staff time, consultant costs, legal
fees, and design and construction costs.
E. Assessment. Project costs will be assessed to each property contributing flow
to the problem area in accordance with Minn. Statute 429 and pursuant to
the City's Assessment policy.
Golden Valley City Code
Page 17 of 17
alley
Memorand m
Public Works
763-593-8030 I 763-593-3988 (fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
May 12, 2009
Agenda Item
3. 2009 Pavement Management: Request for Secondary Driveway
Prepared By
Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works
Jeff Oliver, PE, City Engineer
Summary
Public Works staff has received a request from Mr. Glenn Fuller, 2224 Windsor Way, to install
access to his rear yard as part of the 2009 Pavement Management Program. Mr. Fuller's
February 23, 2009 letter requesting 12 feet of surmountable curb on Markay Ridge is
attached to this memorandum for reference.
During the preliminary and final design processes for the 2009 Pavement Management
Program, Mr. Fuller discussed his desire to have vehicle access to his backyard via
installation of surmountable curb during the reconstruction of the streets adjacent to his
home. Mr. Fuller was informed of the City's practice and policy, as previously directed by the
City Council, to eliminate secondary driveways and auxiliary parking spaces when streets are
reconstructed to City standards. These conversations with the property owner included a
request for a written request that includes a hardship for a secondary driveway.
The Fuller's request includes a statement that they frequently access the backyard by vehicle
in order to avoid carrying groceries and other heavy items up the stairs adjacent to the
driveway and to allow handicapped people to access the home when they visit the Fullers.
Staff investigated the Fuller's request following receipt of the attached letter and made the
following findings:
1. The Pavement Management Policy was modified in January 2009 to eliminate the
installation of surmountable curb during street reconstruction.
2. There is no direct evidence of consistent vehicle access into the rear yard area such as
vehicle tracks.
3. There is full vehicle access to the property via the driveway from Windsor Way, including
a double tuck-under garage. The Fullers have indicated that this access is utilized for the
desired purposes during the winter months.
4. The Fullers have stated that there are no handicap people living in the residence.
5. As directed by the City Council, staff has consistently eliminated auxiliary driveways to
rear yard areas during PMP projects. The minutes of the March 15, 2000
Council/Manager meeting where this issue was discussed are attached to this
memorandum for reference. Accesses have been provided in two instances.
a. In the 2006 PMP, a property owner had a tuck-under garage below the primary garage
that was consistently used, and continues to be used for vehicle parking. The portion
of this driveway within the street right-of-way was repaved, including a pavement
extension to allow parking outside of the boulevard, as part of the project. This
driveway also provides the City access to the adjacent pond for maintenance
purposes.
b. In the 2005 PMP, a driveway apron was installed for a property owner to access a
secondary garage door, located on the side of the garage, where the property owner
stored a boat. The property owner committed to paving the driveway to be consistent
with City Code, but has not followed through on this commitment.
Based upon the findings of this investigation, staff determined that there was no hardship
present at the Fuller residence, and the request to install localized surmountable curb for
driveway access to the rear of the home was denied.
The Fullers have requested that the City Council review their request.
Staff is requesting direction from the City Council on this request.
Attachments
Letter to Jeff Oliver, City Engineer, dated February 23,2009 (2 pages)
E-mail to Jeannine Clancy, Director of Public Works, dated April 19, 2009 (1 page)
Photographs of 2224 Windsor Way (3 pages)
Letter and pictures to City Council, dated May 5, 2009 (4 pages)
City Council/Manager Minutes, dated March 15, 2000 (1 page)
LJ r" B.. t t; tH'; Y
J061 IIl{P
Mr. Jeff Oliver, PE
Public Works Department
7800 Golden Valley Road
Golden Valley, MN 55427
February 23, 2009
l~;CE'!f'v- ""g:;t'~t.-l
li.,'-'!.......... I
FEB25 2009 I
BY: '
. __c, c
-... ~.
RE:REQUEST For a 12 ft. Mountable Curb on
Markay .Ridge on the north side of our comer lot -
At 2224 Windsor Way.
Please be aware that we purchased this vacant lot
back in 1960. We landscaped it at considerable
expense to have a back yard atthe same elevation as
the road at one point to make it possible to drive onto
the back yard. This was planned to make it easier to
bring groceries, handicapped people, and anything
else into the house via the back entrance. Both front
entries require climbing fourteen steps - a hardship
that was recognized and overcome by landscaping at
the time of building on the property.
For almost fifty years we have enjoyed this element
of thinking ahead. Every time we bring a
handicapped friend or a load of groceries in by virtue
of our ability to drive up to the back door we
appreciate our foresight of long ago!
My wife and I respectfully request that the new curbs
and gutters being put in this summer as part of
Golden Valley's Pavement Management Program
have in the plan a twelve foot section of mountable
curb centered on the elevation where the road and our
back yard are as close to the same as possible.
We have lived in Golden Valley for forty-eight years.
In all that time we have never made a special request
of Golden Valley of any kind. But we are very
anxious about this and hope that you will look
favorably on this request as it is very important to us.
Thank you for your attention and concern!
Sincerely yours,
~ fr-:r~
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Glenn A. & Marlys S. Fuller
Clancy, Jeannine
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Glenn & Marlys Fuller [glennandmarlys@gmail.com]
Sunday, April 19, 2009 1:27 PM
Clancy, Jeannine
twelve foot mountable curb section - 2224 Windsor Way 2009 PMP Area 3
Hello Jeannine Clancy. Back on March 26th you witnessed the last part of a conversation I
had with Jeff Oliver relative to my written request to him - dated February 23, 2009 - to
include twelve feet of mountable curb on the Markay Ridge portion of our corner lot as part
of the'area 3 Project Management Plan that affects our neighborhood of Westurban this summer.
As you know, I was totally dumbfounded to learn that my request was being turned down. A few
days after that meeting I left for a month in Texas where I am right now. I expect to return
to Golden Valley on or about May 1st. Soon after I will give you a call; I would like to
meet with you so we can discuss this further.
This issue is very important to my wife and me, and I feel that Golden Valley should agree to
our request for the following reasons:
1. We have been good citizens of Golden Valley since 1961; a simple reasonable request for 12
feet of mountable curb where we want it should be happily honored by our City of Golden
Valley. 2. We have had a mountable curb where we want it for 48 years; we occasionally
bring in groceries directly to our kitchen, and load heavy luggage directly into the car from
the house - all without the need to carry heavy items up or down fourteen steps which is
necessary if we enter or exit the front of the house. This amenity of this unique property
is important and valuable - result of careful planning when we had the house built and the
yard landscaped. Certainly this labor saving feature of the property deserves
"grandfathering in". 3. We have handicapped friends that cannot traverse fourteen stairs;
they will not be able to enter our house without our mountable curb feature.
I am hoping Ms Clancy that we can meet and keep this "molehill" of a request from becoming a
"mountain" of a problem for either one of
us. Thanks for your consideration I Glenn and Marlys Fuller
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uncil/Manager Meeting Minutes
March 15, 2000
Present: Mayor Anderson and Council
Micks. Staff P .
an at 5:32 PM in the City Council Conference Room.
Boulevard Parking Areas in Pavement Management Projects
Jeannine Clancy explained that street reconstruction requires restoration of areas
where private yards meet the right of way. It has been past practice to reconstruct
these areas as closely as possible to the prior existing condition, takihg into
consideration drainage, safety and maintenance issues. However the prior
condition does not always meet provisions of the code, and we have had
neighbors complain. The policy issue for the Council is whether to have the street
program match prior conditions, or serve as a type of code enforcement. Jeff
Oliver reported that the engineering staff has identified 17 residences in this year's
program that have non-conformities. He presented pictures with examples of
varying parking arrangements on private residential lots. In some instances the
resident has a hardship due to limited on-street parking and topographic
conditions that limit parking in their own driveway. The Council discussed the type
of variances and considerations of grand fathering or removing various types of
parking arrangements.
The Council consensus is to allow parking related to existing driveways and
discourage those removed from the driveways, except in hardship cases where
there is limited on-street parking or topographic limitations - all with consideration
of improving drainage, safety and maintenance. The staff recommendation will be
shared with property owners during the design process. Owners will have an
opportunity to register an appeal to the Council by a specific date. Neighbors
adjacent and across the street from the appealing property owner will be notified
as to when the Council will be considering the appeal.
Options for xcess Hennepin Cou ty Property (Former Sooting Range)
Bey
Memorandum
City Administration/Council
763-593-8014/763-593-8109 (fax)
Executive Summary
Golden Valley Council/Manager Meeting
May 12, 2009
Agenda Item
4. Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Prepared By
Jeanne Andre, Assistant City Manager
Summary
Council Member Scanlon and staff have been meeting with community members on a new
initiative called Neighbors Helping Neighbors. The initiative came out of the desire of two
local congregations to undertake community service projects closer to home. In the past they
have sent groups to help out in other parts of the country, but felt that they would also like to
help neighbors here in Golden Valley. Calvary Church has already helped community
members through its Hands, Hearts and Hammers program. Valley Community Church has
volunteered locally through the Paint-A-Thon but is looking for other alternatives.
Staff convened a group of interested parties including: Calvary and Valley Community
Churches, PRISM, NWHHSC, CAPSH, HOME (and Senior Community Services), and CEE.
Staff involved includes Josh Kunde, Mark Kuhnly, Jeanne Fackler, Jeanne Andre, Tom Burt
and Joanne Paul.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors has been dubbed a pilot program. PRISM has agreed to be the
primary agent and other participants haven agreed to specific roles. Property Maintenance
staff will refer folks to PRISM and PRISM and the churches may independently identify
residents that need assistance. Staff is proposing to use CEE to undertake inspections for
properties that are not referred with formal violations. CEE has agreed to add this scope of
work to their existing contract. The churches will use volunteer labor to undertake some
projects. The HOME Program serves seniors aged 60 and older with housekeeping,
handymen and identified contractors. PRISM will seek to coordinate these efforts, including
checking with the Police Department and Inspections for more information about the
properties.
The participants have agreed in concept to proceed with a pilot program. Each is going back
to their Board to gain support, and PRISM is seeking grants to support its efforts. The group
is working on a set of forms that will help communicate the status of each property and clarify
expectations and legal responsibilities for homeowners and volunteers.