HomeMy WebLinkAboutPACKET Estes Valley Planning Commission 2019-03-19
The Estes Valley Planning Commission reserves the right to consider other appropriate items not available at the time the agenda
was prepared.
Prepared: March 13, 2019
Revised March 14, 2019
AGENDA
ESTES VALLEY PLANNING COMMISSION
March 19, 2019
1:30 p.m. Board Room, Town Hall
1. OPEN MEETING
Planning Commissioner Introductions
2. AGENDA APPROVAL
3. PUBLIC COMMENT
The EVPC will accept public comments regarding items not on the agenda. Comments should not exceed
three minutes.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Study Session Minutes: February 19, 2019
Minutes: February 19, 2019
5. THEISS REZONE
Continued to April 16, 2019 per staff request
6. CODE AMENDMENT: VACATION HOMES and BED AND BREAKFAST INNS Director Hunt
Continued from February 19, 2019 meeting
7. CODE AMENDMENT: COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSISTENCY Director Hunt
To be withdrawn per staff request
8. CODE AMENDMENT: PARK AND RECREATION FACILITIES Senior Planner Woeber
Continued from February 19, 2019 meeting
9. DISCUSSION ITEM: PROPOSAL TO ADDRESS THE LACK OF REPRESENTATION RESOLUTION
Continued from February 19, 2019 meeting
10. REPORTS
Future Code Amendments
Change in meeting times beginning May 21, 2019
11. ADJOURN
Town of Estes Park, Larimer County, Colorado February 19, 2019
Minutes of a Study Session meeting of the PLANNING COMMISSION of the Estes
Valley, Larimer County, Colorado. Meeting held Rooms 202/203 of Town Hall.
Commission: Chair Leavitt, Vice Chair White, Commissioners, Foster, Murphree, Smith,
Theis
Attending: Leavitt, Theis, Murphree, Smith, White
Also Attending: Town Attorney White, Director Hunt, Senior Planner Woeber, Planner I
Becker, Town Board Liaison Norris, County Liaison Whitley, Code
Compliance Officer Hardin and Recording Secretary Swanlund
Absent: Foster
Chair Leavitt called the meeting to order at 11:00 a.m.
There were 3 people in attendance. This study session was streamed and recorded on the Town of
Estes Park YouTube channel.
Code Amendment: Vacation Homes & Bed and Breakfast Inns
Chair Leavitt noted that Town Clerk Jackie W illiamson has concerns about the amendments and
would like a deferral on voting until March. Code Compliance Officer Hardin and Director Hunt
agreed to continue the Code Amendment to the March 19 meeting however Hardin made note that
she will not be in attendance for that meeting.
Code Amendment: Consistency with Comprehensive Plan
Director Hunt reviewed the Consistency with Comp Plan amendment, stating that it is the same
material that was in the January meeting. Ministerial is not discretionary, no comp plan reference
required. Legislative are discretionary proposals and would retain the comp plan reference.
Chair Leavitt had several areas of concern, including wildlife corridors, making sure we don’t remove
or replace things with regulatory implications, denied development plans need to have elements of
the development code cited in the reasons, and whether or not the IGA will have an effect on this
subject. The recommendation of not moving forward with this at this time was made as it is not
holding up any current development plans.
Michael Whitley explained that in Larimer County anything approved at staff level doesn’t require
consistency with comp plan, the Development Code is the sole criteria.
There was consensus to continue the amendment.
Code Amendment: Park and Recreation Facilities (conceptual)
Chair Leavitt made note that he was the author of the Conceptual Amendment, not Director Hunt or
the Planning Commission. His motive for this was to keep consistency and generate discussion, and
avoid contradictions and vagueness. The intent is a starting point for discussion. Today’s public
hearing is not based on a full-fledged proposal but is a place to hear public comment. Last month this
was only a discussion item, which was a new mechanism for the PC study sessions.
Planning Commission Study Session February 19, 2019 – Page 2
Whitley explained that Larimer County handles code amendments with a monthly work session
between Commissioners and Planning Commission. Often, the agreement is to not pursue the Code
Amendment. For high-level amendments, the process is to get feedback, bring back for more
discussion, have open house public meetings, bring back again for a public hearing.
Conceptual idea is basically a laundry list of things to be done, leaning toward a narrower approach
and make modifications if necessary. The intent is to steer away from special reviews by putting in
code language that provides restrictions. Main public concerns are with the ambiguity of the terms
commercial and noncommercial and the difference between public and private. Temporary uses
have a lot of latitude. Contractors and developers are going to find loop holes. A possible solution
for commercial entities may be a new Park/Recreation zone. Whitley stated that City of Greeley
Regulations separate out true parks and rec facilities which allows taking non-park and rec out of
certain definitions. Working with table 4.1, grandfathering and temporary use are the main goals.
Moratoriums are temporary, you have to pursue a solution. It was agreed to continue the item to a
later meeting.
Lunch 12:05-12:25
By-Laws revision
Planner Becker reviewed the updated By-Laws based on what was discussed at the December and
January study session. There were no questions or comments on the new version.
Meeting start times were discussed. Study session start time of 3:30 p.m., leaving a break for dinner,
and regular meeting starting at 6:00 p.m. was agreed upon. A vote on this would make it a “normal”
meeting time for the rest of the year. Public attendance will be tracked to see if the later time draws
more interest with a review after six months. Plan is to begin the later meetings in April or May to
give time for public notification.
Becker also passed out handouts regarding parking thresholds and neighborhood and community
meetings, which will be study session items in March.
Joint Planning Area Resolution
Leavitt wrote this resolution (attached) to let the Town Board know the Planning Commission’s
thoughts on the IGA. The hope is to vote on this at the public meeting today, so it can be entered into
the joint Town/County meeting being held this evening. It is hard to imagine planning without it being
Valley wide. The issue is governance. There are plenty of reasons to keep the Joint Planning Area
and losing it would be problematic for people living outside of town limits. Attorney White discussed
what it was like prior to the IGA. RMNP kicked off the proposal due to the threat of development in
the County. Citizens came up with the Comp Plan, funded through EPURA with help from a
Consultant. The zoning plan was part of the comp plan, it was a 6 year process and implemented in
2000. Leavitt reviewed two components in addition to the resolution; modify the Development Code
to have all projects with community wide impact be reviewed by the EVPC, and all appeals of
Development Plan decisions be reviewed and approved by both the Town Board and County
Commissioners. Attorney White stated that zoning power can’t be given to someone else therefore
making component two likely illegal.
Hunt added, from the role of the Department head of CD, that we are not compensated appropriately
by the County, with 56% of work being in town and 44% county.
Planning Commission Study Session February 19, 2019– Page 3
Consultant Report
Woeber spoke on Ayres and Associates, the consultants that are working on our parking standards in
the Development Code. A more detailed report will be available in March.
Going paperless
Director Hunt proposed getting rid of the paper notebooks and move to electronic devices: Individuals
will be polled and asked which format they prefer. If electronic is preferred, the town will not be able
to provide the hardware unless all members agree.
Chair Leavitt adjourned the meeting at 1:15 p.m.
_____________________________________
Bob Leavitt, Chair
Karin Swanlund, Recording Secretary
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Estes Valley Planning Commission
February 19, 2019
Board Room, Estes Park Town Hall
1
Commission: Chair Bob Leavitt, Vice-Chair Sharry White, Commissioners Nick Smith,
Robert Foster, Steve Murphree, Frank Theis
Attending: Leavitt, White, Smith, and Theis
Also Attending: Director Randy Hunt, Town Attorney Greg White, Senior Planner Jeff
Woeber, Planner I Robin Becker, Town Board Liaison Ron Norris,
Larimer County Liaison Michael Whitley, Code Compliance Officer Linda
Hardin, Recording Secretary Karin Swanlund
Absent: Foster, Murphree
Chair Leavitt called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. There were approximately 40 people in
attendance.
1. OPEN MEETING
2. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was moved and seconded (Theis/White) to approve the agenda as presented and
the motion passed 4-0.
3. PUBLIC COMMENT
None
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Approval of January 19, 2019 Planning Commission meeting minutes.
Approval of January 19, 2019 Study Session minutes
It was moved and seconded (White/Smith) to approve the agenda as presented and
the motion passed 4-0.
5. RESOLUTION: JOINT PLANNING AREA and PROPOSAL TO ADDRESS THE LACK
OF REPRSENTATION
Chair Leavitt briefly outlined the proposed Resolution in Support of the Continuance of the
Joint Planning Area.
Public Comment:
Tom Gootz, 2855 Grey Fox, in complete support of continuing the Joint Planning Area.
Mike Kennedy, 2550 Devils Gulch Road, inherent problem of the town and county not
having the same objectives; town wants commercial developments, county citizens want
to preserve their residential tranquility. Joint areas don’t address opposing views.
Citizens of county need support and advice independent of the town.
Dave Converse, 2119 McGraw Ranch Road, in support of the resolution.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Estes Valley Planning Commission
February 19, 2019
Board Room, Estes Park Town Hall
2
Jim Swaney, 1579 Jacob Road, doesn’t object to the joint process, but does not agree
with how it is conducted.
Commission comments:
Smith supports the Joint Planning Area but agrees with some of the concerns of County
residents. White supports the IGA continuation stating it works well for the Estes Valley.
Theis supports the resolution and noted that it can be frustrating using a different building
department, but the same planning department. The Planning Commission is the
sounding board for the public and without the IGA, county residents would have to go to
the Larimer County Planning Commission. Leavitt stated that we are one valley in terms
of a community and people and concerns are across the entire valley. Separating land
use planning from all the other joint planning seems to be backwards. There are issues
that need to be addressed and resolved, but the IGA should stand.
It was moved and seconded (Theis/White) to approve the Joint Planning Area
Resolution as presented and the motion passed 4-0.
Chair Leavitt reviewed the Proposal to Address the Lack of Representation, breaking it
down into two parts.
1) Modify the Estes Park development codes to have all development projects with
community wide impacts be reviewed and approved by the EVPC rather than the
Community Development Staff.
2) Requirement that all appeals of development plan decisions be reviewed and
approved by both the Town Trustees and County Commissioners in separate
hearings, which is already being done for Code changes. Development decisions are
quasi-judicial, Code changes are legislative in nature
Attorney W hite stated that point number two is not legally sustainable as written in
Colorado. Ultimate power to approve land use is retained individually between the Town
Board and the County Commissioners.
Leavitt added that perhaps this would be an advisory role, rather than an approval role
for the governing bodies to weigh in on. Theis stated that he thinks the resolution needs
to be refined. White recommended a continuance to March.
It was moved and seconded (White/Smith) to continue the Proposal to Address the
Lack of Representation Resolution as presented to the March 19, 2019 meeting.
The motion passed 4-0.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION BY-LAWS
Planner Becker reviewed the objective of the By-Law’s amendment. The previous update
was done in 2014. This update’s main focus is on Planning Commission meeting start
times to allow for a greater number of public to attend. Staff recommended April as a date
for notification of the new times, to be effective with the May 21 meeting.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Estes Valley Planning Commission
February 19, 2019
Board Room, Estes Park Town Hall
3
Commission Discussion:
99% of changes are a cleaning up of previous by-law versions. The intent is to move to
evening meetings and monitor attendance for six months. Another change is following the
State Statutes on dealing with conflicts of interest.
It was moved and seconded (Theis/Smith) to approve the updated By-Laws and the
motion passed 4-0.
7. ESTABLISH START TIME FOR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS AND STUDY
SESSION
This change came about from public requests of wanting to attend meetings but unable to
due to the afternoon time.
It was moved and seconded (Leavitt/White) to set the Study Session start time to 3:30
p.m. and meeting start time to 6:00 p.m., ending by 10:00 p.m. unless otherwise
voted to extend, for the remainder of the year, with a review after six months,
effective May 1, 2019 and the motion passed 4-0.
8. CODE AMENDMENT: VACATION HOMES AND BED AND BREAKFAST INNS
Request to continue to March, 2019 meeting.
It was moved and seconded (Theis/White) to continue the Vacation Homes and Bed
and Breakfast Code Amendments to March. The motion passed 4-0.
9. CODE AMENDMENT: COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSISTENCY
Director Hunt stated that it is staffs request to continue the item to a later meeting, but to
review and allow public comment at this meeting. There is no time line or deadline for this
subject. He reviewed the code amendment and the recent discussions regarding it. This
would remove some but not all comprehensive plan references and review criteria from the
Development Code. Traditional planning, broadly speaking, has two types of actions to be
taken: Ministerial, which are administrative actions, would remove comp plan references
as criteria (variances, development plans, temporary uses/structures, Location and Extent
reviews, final subdivision plats) and Legislative, which are discretionary actions, would
keep comp plan references.
Public Comment:
Tom Gootz, concerned about what has already been taken out of the Comprehensive
Plan, specifically Section 7.8, Wildlife Habitats. In 2008 an updated map of Wildlife Habitat
areas, protecting Big Horn Sheep and Raptors was published. This is not what people
want. There are far reaching effects that must be paid attention to.
Committee Discussion:
Need a closer look to fully understand the ministerial changes. Theis agreed in principle
with Tom Gootz on the wrongful removal of wildlife habitat, and we need to be sure a
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Estes Valley Planning Commission
February 19, 2019
Board Room, Estes Park Town Hall
4
requirement of wildlife habitats are in plan reviews. It is unknown at this point what comp
plan will look like in the future.
It was moved and seconded (White/Theis) to continue the Code Amendment of
Comprehensive Plan Consistency to March, 2019. The motion passed 4-0.
10. CODE AMENDMENT: PARK AND RECREATION FACILITIES
Chair Leavitt stated that he authored the conceptual plan written in an effort to generate
discussion not a proposal, and in an attempt to avoid unintended consequences. He
added that he didn’t sign his name, and Director Hunt was not involved.
Staff recommended continuance of the Park and Recreation Code Amendment.
Public Comment:
Mike Kennedy, asked why we are putting emphasis on commercial development in
residential districts.
Mark Gunther, 421 Ridgeview Lane, hopes that any future code changes would be such
that if we are looking at a commercial project in a residential area the code not allow it.
Geoff Letchworth, 1726 Devils Gulch Road, there is no protection for open space land
becoming developed.
Tom Gootz, Table 4.1 includes many Commercial uses allowed in Residential zones and
this needs to be considered.
Ed Degan, 2534 Devils Gulch, delineation between residential and commercial is what
people like and want.
Virginia Page, 1861 Raven Ave, residential should mean residential, protect Estes Park or
it won’t be Estes Park anymore.
Diane Ernst, 148 Stanley Circle, appreciates what was said at the Study Session. Thanks
to the Planning Commission for hearing the public.
Commission Discussion:
It was agreed that this is an incomplete process, and the emails have been received and
heard and taken seriously, give and take will be necessary to make this all work.
Recreation does not have to mean commercial. No code can anticipate every scenario
that may come up. It is the hope of the PC to clarify as best we can and allow for
temporary uses and keep residential residential. A complete proposal will be forthcoming.
The moratorium is in place until April. Theis thinks there should be little if any commercial
in residential areas.
It was moved and seconded (Theis/White) to continue the Code Amendment for Park
and Recreation Facilities to March, 2019. The motion passed 4-0.
RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
Estes Valley Planning Commission
February 19, 2019
Board Room, Estes Park Town Hall
5
11. REPORTS: Director Hunt
A) Two amendments for later study session: minimum number of parking spaces for
development reviews, and Neighborhood and Community meeting notification updates
and sign requirements.
B) Planning Technician will be hired to help with work load.
C) Planning Commission vacancy for a Town resident.
There being no further business, Chair Leavitt adjourned the meeting at 3:00 p.m.
_________________________________
Bob Leavitt, Chair
__________________________________
Karin Swanlund, Recording Secretary
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Staff Report
To: Estes Valley Planning Commission
From:
Date:
RE:
Linda Hardin, Code Compliance Officer
March 19, 2019
Amendment to the Estes Valley Development Code, §5.1.B. Vacation
Home.
Planning Commission Objective:
Review and provide a recommendation for a proposed text amendment to the Estes
Valley Development Code (EVDC):
To review the current conditions with regard to the vacation home regulations;
To amend regulations as deemed necessary;
To make a recommendation to the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees and the
Larimer County Board of Commissioners
Present Situation:
On December 15, 2016, the Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees and the Larimer
County Board of Commissioners adopted strong and enforceable codes to regulate
short-term vacation rentals in the Estes Valley. Every aspect of the code was
addressed to create an environment where vacation homes and residents could co-exist
with minimal issues. After two (2) years of enforcing the new regulations it has been
suggested that it is time to review and update the codes where necessary.
In general, the new codes have proven to be effective. We have registered 774
vacation homes in the Estes Valley, with the cap of 588 having been reached in
residential zoning districts. Every one of these homes has gone through the rigorous
registration process, which includes neighbor notifications, zoning inspection and
compliance with exterior lighting and wildlife protection.
As we work with these codes, there have been a few items that need clarification or
redirection. For that reason, with guidance from the Planning Commission, the EVDC is
recommended for amendment to meet current conditions.
Proposal:
To recommend amendments the EVDC as outlined in Exhibit A (Red), to the Town
Board and County Commissioners as summarized here:
Stipulate that only the property owner can apply for a vacation home registration;
To add better defined timelines for vacation home owners to complete their
registrations;
Remove unnecessary language with regard to the original transition period
(which has now expired);
Clarify that the registration stays with the property and is non-transferable to
another location;
Add a requirement that vacation homes must be rented for a specified period of
time to maintain the registration;
Expand the reach for property managers to reside within 1 hour, versus requiring
they reside in the Estes Valley;
Requiring the new owners submit the transfer application within fifteen (15) days
from acquiring the property;
Removed the requirement of including local representative or property manager
information be included in the neighbor notifications;
Update the number of allowed vehicles parked on the property to align with the
number of bedrooms in the home;
Add references to both the Sign Codes and Wildlife Ordinances to accommodate
stronger enforcement through the EVDC.
Staff Findings of Fact:
The text amendment complies with EVDC §3.3.D (Code Amendments – Standards for
Review).
§3.3.D Code Amendments, Standards for Review
“All rezonings and text amendments to the EVDC shall meet the following criteria.”
1. “The amendment is necessary to address changes in conditions in the
areas affected;”
Staff Finding:
The amendment is necessary to address changes in conditions in the area
affected.
2. “The development plan, which the proposed amendment to this Code
would allow, is compatible and consistent with the policies and intent of
the Comprehensive Plan and with existing growth and development
patterns in the Estes Valley; and”
Staff Finding:
The proposed text amendment is compatible and consistent with the intent of the
Comprehensive Plan and with existing growth and development patterns in the
Estes Valley.
3. “The Town, County or other relevant service providers shall have the ability
to provide adequate services and facilities that might be required if the
application were approved.”
Staff Finding:
Providers of public water, sewage disposal, electric services, fire protection, and
transportation services have expressed no concerns with the proposed
amendment in principle.
Advantages:
Bring the codes up to date with the current conditions;
Eliminate confusion in certain areas of the code by tightening up the language;
Potentially open up registrations for some on the waitlist;
Provide enforceability for signs and wildlife protection outside the town boundary.
Disadvantages:
Disallow the “holding” of a registration for possible future use, increase property
value or prevent another registration from occurring
Additional controls to the vacation home industry will require educating home
owners and property managers of the new requirements, which ultimately
includes staff time.
Action Recommended:
It is recommended by staff that the Planning Commission make a recommendation to
the Governing bodies to adopt the amendments to the EVDC regarding vacation home
regulations [Exhibit A (Red)].
Finance/Resource Impact:
Additional staff time and resources will be required initially to inform the vacation home
community of the amendments.
Level of Public Interest
Vacation homes in general have been an issue of high public interest. However, we
have only received one written comment regarding these amendments.
Sample Motion:
I move that the Planning Commission recommend approval and adoption of amending
the vacation home regulations per Exhibit A (Red) [state findings of fact].
I move that the Planning Commission recommend denial of amending the vacation
home regulations per Exhibit A (Red) [state findings of fact].
I move that the Planning Commission continue the vacation home code amendment as
shown in Exhibit A (Red) to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Planning
Commission, requesting that…[state direction for additional changes to the draft].
Attachments:
Exhibit A (Red) – Code Amendment
Public Comment email
EXHIBIT A
[Red]
[CHAPTER 5 – USE REGULATIONS, §5.1.B]
Estes Valley Planning Commission: March 19, 2019
§ 5.1 - SPECIFIC USE STANDARDS
B. Vacation Home.
1.All vacation homes shall be subject to the following:
a.Annual Operating Registration.
(1) All vacation homes shall obtain an operating registration on an annual basis,
according to an application period as specified in this Code. An operating registration
shall be effective on and following the date of issuance for all of the remaining
calendar year in which it is issued, unless suspended or revoked for cause, provided
that registered vacation homes may continue operation during January 1 and March
31 of any calendar year following a year in which the vacation home was duly
registered.
(2) If the property is located within Town limits, the business license shall be considered
the operating registration. If the property is within the unincorporated Estes Valley, an
operating registration shall be obtained from the Town of Estes Park Town Clerk's
Office. The property owner of record at the time of application shall sign any
application for a vacation home registration.
(3) Beginning January 1, 2017, the annual period for filing operating registration
applications shall begin January 1 of each year and end on March 31 of each year, in
accordance with subsection (1). Issuance of an operating registration between April 1
and December 31 in any given calendar year shall take place on a schedule
determined by the Town Clerk's office and such schedule shall be at the sole
discretion of the Town. Registration applications shall be completed within ninety (90)
days from issuance of the packet from the Community Development Department.
Registrations not completed within ninety (90) days will be voided and are subject to
reapplication by the property owner. New applications for vacation homes in
residential zoning districts shall be placed on the wait list if the cap is full.
(4) Pro-ration and partial reduction in any required registration fees for an operating
registration issued after January 1 in any given year shall not be authorized.
(5) No more than one (1) operating registration shall be issued and effective in any given
calendar year for each vacation home. An active registration for a specific vacation
home shall be transferable to a different owner in accordance with procedures in this
Code and as established by the Town Clerk's Office. A registration assigned to a
vacation home shall not be transferred to another vacation home of the same or
different ownership.
(6) Effective December 16, 2016, vacation home operating registrations in residential
zoning districts (designated herein as zoning districts E, E-1, R, R-1, R-2, RE, RE-1,
and RM) shall be held at a maximum total ("cap") of 588 registrations in effect at any
given time. This cap shall be reviewed annually by the Planning Commission and
governing Boards, in or near the month of April beginning in or near April 2017.
Applications received at any time such that their approval would cause the cap to be
exceeded shall be held and kept on file in the order they are received and deemed
complete by the Town Clerk's Office. Registrations held on such list shall be issued
during the calendar year as operating registrations may become available.
(7) Vacation homes in non-residential zoning districts (designated as all zoning districts
except those enumerated in the preceding subsection) shall not be included in or
subject to this cap.
(8) Beginning December 16, 2016, every vacation home for which an operating
application is made shall require that the vacation home undergo and pass an initial
inspection in accordance with this Code prior to issuance of the operating registration.
(9) [Reserved] Vacation homes in residential zoning districts shall be rented for a
cumulative period of no less than fifteen (15) days in which a registration is held for a
full calendar year. Property owners shall sign an affidavit with the renewal verifying
they have rented their property as required. Further evidence of rentals may be
required at the discretion of the Community Development Director.
(10) Issuance of an operating registration for a vacation home shall not constitute a zoning
entitlement for a property's use as a vacation home, nor shall absence of an operating
registration for a vacation home constitute removal or abrogation of a property's
zoning permissibility for use as a vacation home. However, both appropriate zoning
permission and compliance and a valid current operating registration shall be
necessary elements in order for operation as a vacation home to occur.
(11) Operating registrations that are deemed active as of December 31 in any given year
shall have priority for renewal in the following calendar year over any new operating
registration applications, provided a re-application renewal for said active registration
is received and deemed complete, all required inspections passed, and fees paid by
March 31 of the renewal calendar year.
(12) Local Representative. The registration shall designate a local resident or local
property manager residing in the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District boundary,
who can be contacted by telephone and is available when the vacation home is
rented, regarding any violation of the provisions of this Section. The person set forth
on the application shall be the representative of the owner for immediate violation
resolution purposes with regard to the operation of the vacation home. The local
representative may be the same person as the property owner. An annual operating
registration shall not be valid unless the property owner, and the designated local
representative (if different), sign the operating registration application acknowledging
all vacation home regulations. If the local representative changes during the calendar
year, it shall be the responsibility of the property owner to notify the Town Clerk within
fifteen (15) days of change, and to ensure the new local representative is
knowledgeable of all vacation home regulations.
(13) If the property owner changes during the calendar year, it shall be the responsibility of
the new property owner of record to transfer the operating registration into his/her
name within fifteen (15) days of transfer of ownership, and to ensure all other
regulations in this Section are in compliance.
(13) (14) State Sales Tax License. A condition of issuance of the annual operating
registration shall be proof of a current sales tax license, provided by the applicant.
(14) (15) Violations. The relevant Decision-Making Entity may deny or withhold the
renewal of an annual operating registration until a violation related to such property,
use or development is corrected, in accordance with §12.4.A.1. The relevant
Decision-Making Entity may revoke or suspend the annual operating registration at
any time in accordance with §12.4.A.2. Operating the vacation home during any such
period of suspension or revocation shall be a violation of this Code. Appeals to this
section shall be made in accordance with the appeals process in the Estes Valley
Development Code.
(15) Nothing described herein shall limit the Town or County, within their respective
jurisdictions, from exercising other remedies and enforcement powers pursuant to
Chapter 12 of this Code or other penalties and enforcement powers as may be
available at law.
b. Estes Park Municipal Code. Properties located within the Town of Estes Park shall comply
with all the conditions and requirements set forth in the Town of Estes Park Municipal
Code, Chapter 5.20 (Business Licenses). In case of conflict between Chapter 5.20 and
provisions of §5.1.B of this Code, the provisions of §5.1.B of this Code shall control.
c. Residential Character in Residential Zoning Districts. Vacation homes in residential zoning
districts as designated in this Section shall not be designed or operated in a manner that is
out of character with residential use of a dwelling unit by one household. This includes, but
is not limited to, the following:
(1) Design shall be compatible, in terms of building scale, mass and character, with low -
intensity, low-scale residential use.
(2) For purposes of §5.1.B of this Code, "bedroom" and "sleeping room" are deemed
equivalent terms to each other, and equivalent to a sleeping space pursuant to the
currently adopted and applicable International Building Codes. Kitche n facilities shall
be limited to be consistent with single-family residential use. No kitchen facilities or
cooking shall be allowed in guest rooms, sleeping rooms or bedrooms.
d. Postings.
(1) Vacation homes in all zoning districts shall have a clearly legible notice posted on-site.
The posted notice shall be provided by the Town Clerk's Office at the time the
operating-registration is initially applied for, shall be posted in a prominent location
inside the vacation home prior to or during the initial inspection, and shall remain
posted in the same location for the duration of its use as a vacation home. The posted
notice shall include standard contents as determined and approved by the Community
Development Department.
(2) Property Line Boundaries: The property owner or local representative shall inform all
occupants of property boundaries.
(3) Property owner or local representative shall include in all print or online advertising the
operating registration number in the first line of the property description.
(4) Advertising shall accurately represent the allowed use of the property, including the
maximum number of allowed occupants.
(5) Neighbor Notification. Prior to issuance of the initial annual operating registration, the
owner or local contact shall be responsible for mailing a written notice.
(a) Notice shall be mailed, with certificate of mailing or other method as approved by
staff, to the owners of properties within one hundred (100) feet of the boundary of
the subject property.
(b) Notices shall provide property address and 24/7 hotline phone number. a name
and telephone number of the local representative and property owner. Any
change in the local representative or property owner shall require that the name
and telephone number of the new representative or owner be furnished to the
Community Development Director and owners of properties with 15 days two (2)
weeks of the change. Mailed notice of such changes shall follow the same
procedure as the initial notification as specified herein.
(c) Proof of mailing shall be provided to the Community Development Director upon
issuance of initial annual operating registration.
e. Parking.
(1) Minimum Required Off-Street Parking. Except in the CD Downtown Commercial
zoning district, the number of off-street parking spaces available to a vacation home
shall not be less than two (2).
(2) Maximum Off-Street Parking - Residential Zoning Districts. This Section applies to all
vehicles that are not parked or stored in a fully enclosed garage. No more than a total
of four (4) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot of two (2) acres or less. No more
than a total of five (5) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot greater than two (2)
acres in size, but less than five (5) acres. No more t han a total of six (6) vehicles shall
be parked or stored on a lot equal to, or greater than five (5) acres, but less than ten
(10) acres. No more than a total of eight (8) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot
equal to, or greater than ten (10) acres. The maximum number of vehicles parked off-
street on the vacation home property shall not exceed the number of bedrooms in the
vacation home.
(3) Maximum Off-Street Parking - Nonresidential Zoning Districts. Maximum parking for
vacation homes in nonresidential zoning districts shall be regulated according to the
parking standards applicable to "Hotel, small."
f. Employee Housing Units. Employee housing units as designated in §5.2.C.2 shall not be
designated as vacation homes as defined and regulated herein.
g. Attainable Housing Units. Attainable housing units as designated in §11.4 shall not be
designated as vacation homes as defined and regulated herein.
h. Accessory Dwelling Units. Vacation homes shall not be allowed on residential lots of record
containing an accessory dwelling unit as defined and regulated herein.
i. Density. Only one (1) vacation home shall be allowed per residential dwelling unit. One (1)
or more vacation homes may be allowed on an individual lot of record, subject to all
regulations in this Code and other regulations as may be applicable.
2. All vacation homes shall also be subject to the following:
a. Maximum Occupancy in Residential Zoning Districts: 8 -and-Under occupants. Except for 9-
and-over vacation homes that may be approved and registered under the provisions of this
Code via Large Vacation Home Review (LVHR) application, the maximum allowable
occupancy for an individual vacation home shall be eight (8) occupants. Occupancy shall
be further limited to a maximum of two (2) individuals per sleep ing room plus two (2)
individuals per vacation home.
b. Maximum Occupancy in Residential Zoning Districts: 9 -and-Over occupants. A residential
structure with four (4) or more sleeping rooms may apply for Large Vacation Home Review
(LVHR) approval as a "9-and-over vacation home", in accordance with the regulations in
§5.1.B.3. The maximum occupancy in a 9-and-over vacation home shall be as specified in
the LVHR terms of approval; provided that occupancy shall be limited to a maximum of two
(2) individuals per sleeping room plus two (2) individuals per vacation home.
c. Maximum Occupancy in Non-Residential Zoning Districts. Occupancy shall be limited to a
maximum of two (2) individuals per sleeping room plus two (2) individuals per vacation
home. No overall maximum occupancy for a vacation home in a non-residential zoning
district shall be applicable, provided that the vacation home is deemed to be in compliance
with all Building, Fire, and Health Codes and that a valid operating registration is issued.
d. For purposes of this Code section, occupancy shall not be counted differentially on the
basis of age or status.
e. Number of Parties: Vacation homes in residential zone districts as those districts are
defined herein shall be rented, leased or furnishe d to no more than one (1) party,
occupying the vacation home as a single group. Owners of the vacation home shall not be
allowed to occupy the vacation home while a party is present. All occupants shall be
registered by name on or before the time of the party's initial occupancy. The name registry
shall be maintained by the property owner or manager, and shall be made available to the
appropriate regulatory entity(s) upon the regulatory entity's request.
f. Home Occupations. Home occupations shall not be operated on the site of a vacation
home, nor shall vacation homes offer ancillary services to guests.
g. Vacation homes shall be required to meet applicable Building, Health and Fire codes.
h. Except as specifically provided for elsewhere in this Code, general development standards
(Chapter 7) as required by the underlying zoning district shall be applicable. In residential
zoning districts, development standards shall be those for single-family detached dwellings
in the zoning district. In non-residential zoning districts, development standards shall be
those for "hotel, small" in the zoning district.
i. Vacation homes, whether new or existing structures, shall be subject to the requirements
of Sec. 7.9 (Exterior Lighting) for new development.
j. Initial Time Frame for Compliance. Vacation home owners in any zoning district may apply
at any time during 2017 for an operating registration, provided that in all cases: (a) the
vacation home shall not be occupied by clients until the registration is appro ved and
issued; and (b) the operating registration remains valid only until December 31, 2017.
Vacation homes shall be subject to the requirements of the Wildlife Protection Ordinances
of their respective jurisdictions, and shall have wildlife resistant co ntainers or enclosures
provided for the disposal of refuse. [For property in the Town see Chapter 7.20 Wildlife
Protection of the Town of Estes Park Municipal Code. For property in unincorporated
Larimer County see Sections 30-261-277 Wildlife Protection through Refuse Disposal of
the Code of Larimer County Colorado.]
k. Vacation homes shall be subject to the requirements of the Sign Code of their respective
jurisdictions, and shall obtain sign permits as required. [For property in the Town see
Chapter 17.66 Signs of the Town of Estes Park Municipal Code. For property in
unincorporated Larimer County see Section 10.2 General Sign Regulations of the Code of
Larimer County Colorado.]
k. l. Issuance of the operating registration by the Town shall have no fixed deadline; however,
the Town shall make all reasonable effort to issue operating registration approvals in an
orderly and expeditious manner, as may be determined by the Town.
3. Large Vacation Home Review (LVHR) for 9-and-Over Vacation Homes in Residential Zoning
Districts.
a. The owner of record of a vacation home in a residential zoning district that has filed a
complete application for an 8-and-under vacation home operating registration on or before
March 31, 2017, may make application for Large Vacation Home Review (LVHR) under the
procedures of this Section and Code to allow nine (9) or more individuals to occupy the
vacation home, provided that:
(1) The vacation home for which Large Vacation Home Review application is made has
four (4) or more sleeping rooms; and
(2) The vacation home is in compliance with all applicable Building, Health, and Fire
Codes, or is brought into compliance with said Codes by deadline dates as specified
in accordance with the Codes.
b. The Large Vacation Home Review application shall be reviewed and may be approved by
motion and affirmative vote of the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission's
decision shall be final, except that an appeal by a party in interest of the Planning
Commission's decision may be made to the Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees or the
Board of Larimer County Commissioners, whichever has jurisdiction.
c. Large Vacation Home Review for a 9-and-over vacation home shall comply with the
following policies and procedures:
(1) The procedure for application, review, and approval shall comply with the "Procedure
Checklist for Large Vacation Home Review: 9-and-Over Vacation Homes",
promulgated and maintained by the Community Development Department;
(2) The required "Vacation Home Safety Inspection Report" and "Vacation Home
Location Inspection Report" shall be provided to the Planning Commission prior to any
Planning Commission approval of a Large Vacation Home Review;
(3) The minimum lot size for a 9-and-over vacation home shall be one (1) acre, unless the
Planning Commission makes a specific finding that the vacation home has
demonstrated adequate buffering or screening from adjacent and nearby properties,
such that a lot size of less than one (1) acre is commensurate with Large Vacation
Home use. Appropriate alternative standards for demonstrating adequate buffering or
screening shall include, but not be limited to: orientation of the Large Vacation Home
on the property away from nearby residential structures, linear separation from othe r
residential structures, separation from other structures by an intervening right -of-way,
topographic features such as rock formations or grade differences, and mature
vegetation or fencing;
(4) The minimum front, side, and rear setback from any lot bou ndary shall be twenty-five
(25) feet or the setback under the zoning district, whichever is greater, unless the
Planning Commission makes a specific finding that the vacation home has
demonstrated adequate buffering or screening from adjacent and nearby pr operties,
such that a setback of less than twenty-five (25) feet or less than the setback under
the zoning district, whichever may be applicable, is commensurate with Large
Vacation Home use. Appropriate alternative standards for demonstrating adequate
buffering or screening shall include, but not be limited to: orientation of the Large
Vacation Home on the property away from nearby residential structures, linear
separation from other residential structures, separation from other structures by an
intervening right-of-way, topographic features such as rock formations or grade
differences, and mature vegetation or fencing;
(5) An approved Large Vacation Home shall in no case be occupied by more than two (2)
occupants per bedroom plus two (2) additional occupants.
d. Denial of a Large Vacation Home Review zoning permission for use as a 9-and-over
vacation home shall not void an existing operating license for an 8-and-under vacation
home, nor shall such denial in itself void zoning permissibility for use as a n 8-and-under
vacation home; provided that 8-and-under vacation home zoning requirements in this Code
and other applicable regulations remain applicable.
4. Inspections.
a. Beginning December 16, 2016, iInspections of all vacation homes per the requirements of
this Code shall be completed prior to initial approval of any operating registration.
b. All vacation homes with registrations approved during c alendar year 2017 shall be
inspected at least one (1) time during calendar year 2017.[Reserved]
c. Inspection after a violation is cured or after a change in ownership shall be required at the
discretion of the Community Development Director.
d. Inspections shall be completed by the Department in accordance with the applicable
inspection checklist as promulgated and maintained by the Community Development
Department. The checklist shall be either the "Procedure Checklist for 8-and-Under
Vacation Homes" or the "Procedure Checklist for Large Vacation Home Review: 9-and-
Over Vacation Homes", whichever may be applicable. These checklists are hereby
adopted and incorporated by reference in this Code.
5. Transitional Regulations. In order to establish an equitable method of transitioning from pre-
existing vacation-home regulations and those taking effect on December 16, 2016 and beyond,
the following interim regulations shall be effective. In case of any conflict between regulations
elsewhere in this Code and the transitional regulations, the transitional regulations shall control:
a. All 2017 operating-registration applications for vacation homes that have active operating
registrations as of December 15, 2016, shall have first priority in application proc essing
and operating-registration approval for 2017.
b. Within such application first-priority queue as may result from applications filed under
subsection a., sequencing of registration issuance shall be determined by the date/time
received filing stamp by the Town Clerk's Office on the face of each application.
c. All 2017 operating-registration applications for vacation homes that do not have active
operating registrations as of December 15, 2016, but for which either or both of the
following is provided to the Town Clerk's office at the time of initial application, shall have
second priority in application processing and operating -registration approval for 2017:
(1) A written signed contract for vacation-home occupancy during 2016 is provided to the
Town Clerk's Office;
(2) An executed and signed sales tax return establishing that sales tax has been paid
during Year 2016 to the State of Colorado for the vacation home.
d. Within such application second-priority queue as may result from applications filed under
subsection c., sequencing of registration issuance shall be determined by the date/time
received filing stamp by the Town Clerk's Office on the face of each application.
e. All 2017 operating-registration applications for vacation homes that do not satisfy the
requisite conditions in subsection a. or c. shall have third priority in application processing
and operating-registration approval for 2017.
f. Within such application third-priority queue as may result from applications filed under
subsection e., sequencing of registration issuance shall be determined by the date/time
filing stamp by the Town Clerk's Office on the face of each application.
g. In the event the cap for vacation homes in residential zoning districts in §5.1.B.2 is reached
at any point in the 2017 queuing process, applications shall be maintained on a waiting list
in the order established within priority queues as specified above.
h. All operating registrations approved pursuant to applications filed between December 16,
2016 and December 31, 2017 shall initially be for 8-and-under occupants only. The Large
Vacation Home Review shall determine whether or not operating-registration-approved
vacation hom es in residential zoning districts with four (4) or more sleeping rooms may be
approved as 9-and-over Large Vacation Homes; provided, however, that no 9-and-over
Large Vacation Home shall be approved for any 8-and-under vacation home in a
residential district whose registration is filed after March 31, 2017.
i. All vacation home permits in effect on December 15, 2016 shall be automatically extended
and in effect through March 31, 2017. This extension shall be deemed a separate matter
from the operating registration requirements beginning January 1, 2017. Either an
approved 2017 operating registration or an extended 2016 permit shall allow operation of
an 8-and-under vacation home at a given location, provided the vacation home remains in
compliance with all other applicable regulations.
(Ord. 02-10 §1; Ord. 29-16, § 1; Ord. 09-17, § 1)
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Staff Report
To: Estes Valley Planning Commission
From:
Date:
Linda Hardin, Code Compliance Officer
March 19, 2019
RE:Amendment to the Estes Valley Development Code, §5.1.U. Bed and
Breakfast Inn.
Planning Commission Objective:
Review and provide a recommendation for a proposed text amendment to the Estes
Valley Development Code (EVDC):
To review the current conditions with regard to the bed and breakfast inn
regulations;
To amend regulations as deemed necessary;
To make a recommendation to the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees and the
Larimer County Board of Commissioners
Present Situation:
On October 17, 2017, the Town of Estes Park Board of strong and enforceable codes to
regulate bed and breakfast inns in the Estes Valley. On December 18, 2017, the
Larimer County Board of Commissioners followed suit. Every aspect of the code was
addressed to create an environment where bed and breakfast inns operate
harmoniously with their neighbors. After a year of enforcing the new regulations it has
been suggested that it is time to review and update the codes where necessary.
In general, the new codes have proven to be effective. We have registered 22 bed and
breakfast inns in the Estes Valley. Every one of these homes has gone through the
rigorous registration process, which includes neighbor notifications, zoning inspection
and compliance with exterior lighting and wildlife protection.
As we work with these codes, there have been a few items that need clarification or
redirection. The bed and breakfast inn codes were written intentionally to be consistent
with the vacation home codes. The vacation home codes are being considered for
amendments that should align with bed and breakfast codes. For these reasons, with
guidance from the Planning Commission, the EVDC is recommended for amendment to
meet current conditions.
Proposal:
To recommend amendments the EVDC as outlined in Exhibit B (Blue), to the Town
Board and County Commissioners as summarized here:
To add timelines for bed and breakfast inn owners to complete their registrations;
Stipulate that only the property owner can apply for a bed and breakfast
registration;
Requiring the new owners submit the transfer application within fifteen (15) days
from acquiring the property;
Removed the requirement of including residing owner or manager information be
included in the neighbor notifications;
Update the number of allowed vehicles parked on the property to align with the
number of bedrooms in the home;
Add references to both the Sign Codes and Wildlife Ordinances to accommodate
stronger enforcement through the EVDC.
Staff Findings of Fact:
The text amendment complies with EVDC §3.3.D (Code Amendments – Standards for
Review).
§3.3.D Code Amendments, Standards for Review
“All rezonings and text amendments to the EVDC shall meet the following criteria.”
1. “The amendment is necessary to address changes in conditions in the
areas affected;”
Staff Finding:
The amendment is necessary to address changes in conditions in the area
affected.
2. “The development plan, which the proposed amendment to this Code
would allow, is compatible and consistent with the policies and intent of
the Comprehensive Plan and with existing growth and development
patterns in the Estes Valley; and”
Staff Finding:
The proposed text amendment is compatible and consistent with the intent of the
Comprehensive Plan and with existing growth and development patterns in the
Estes Valley.
3. “The Town, County or other relevant service providers shall have the ability
to provide adequate services and facilities that might be required if the
application were approved.”
Staff Finding:
Providers of public water, sewage disposal, electric services, fire protection, and
transportation services have expressed no concerns with the proposed
amendment in principle.
Advantages:
Bring the codes up to date with the current conditions;
Eliminate confusion in certain areas of the code by tightening up the language;
Provide enforceability for signs and wildlife protection outside the town boundary.
Disadvantages:
Additional controls to the bed and breakfast inn industry will require educating
home owners and residing managers of the new requirements, which ultimately
includes staff time.
Action Recommended:
It is recommended by staff that the Planning Commission make a recommendation to
the Governing bodies to adopt the amendments to the EVDC regarding bed and
breakfast inn regulations.
Finance/Resource Impact:
Additional staff time and resources will be required initially to inform the bed and
breakfast inn community of the amendments.
Level of Public Interest
Bed and breakfast inn have had a low level of public interest. No comments have been
received regarding these amendments.
Sample Motion:
I move that the Planning Commission recommend approval and adoption of amending
the bed and breakfast inn regulations per Exhibit B (Blue) as stated in the findings of
fact by staff.
I move that the Planning Commission recommend denial of amending the bed and
breakfast inn regulations per Exhibit B (Blue) [state findings of fact].
I move that the Planning Commission continue the bed and breakfast inn code
amendment as shown in Exhibit B (Blue) to the next regularly scheduled meeting of the
Planning Commission, requesting that…[state direction for additional changes to the
draft].
Attachments:
Exhibit B (Blue) – Code Amendment
EXHIBIT B
[Blue]
[CHAPTER 5 – USE REGULATIONS, §5.1.U]
Estes Valley Planning Commission: March 19, 2019
§5.1 - SPECIFIC USE STANDARDS
U. Bed and Breakfast Inn.
1.All bed and breakfast inns shall be subject to the following:
a.Annual Operating Registration.
(1) All bed and breakfast inns shall obtain an operating registration on an annual basis.
An annual operating registration shall be effective on and following the date of
issuance for all of the remaining calendar year in which it is issued, unless suspended
or revoked for cause, provided that registered bed and breakfast inns may continue
operation during January 1 and March 31 of any calendar year following a year in
which the bed and breakfast inn was duly registered. Registration applications shall
be completed within ninety (90) days from issuance of the packet from the Community
Development Department. Registrations not completed within ninety (90) days shall
be voided and a new application shall be made by the property owner.
(2) If the property is located within Town limits, the business license shall be considered
the permit. If the property is within the unincorporated Estes Valley, a permit shall be
obtained from the Town of Estes Park Town Clerk's office. The property owner of
record at the time of application shall sign any application for bed and breakfast inn
registration.
(3) No more than one (1) operating registration shall be issued and effective in any given
calendar year for a bed and breakfast inn. An active operating registration for a
specific bed and breakfast inn shall be transferable to a different owner in accordance
with procedures in this Code and as established by the Town Clerk's office.
(4) Every bed and breakfast inn for which an operating registration application is made
shall require that the bed and breakfast inn undergo and pass an initial inspection in
accordance with this Code prior to issuance of the operating permit.
(5) Issuance of an operating registration for a bed and breakfast inn shall not constitute a
zoning entitlement for a property's use as a bed and breakfast inn, nor shall absence
of an operating registration for a bed and breakfast inn constitute removal or
abrogation of a property's zoning permissibility for use as a bed and breakfast inn.
However, both appropriate zoning permission, special review approval and
compliance and a valid current operating permit shall be necessary elements in order
for operation as a bed and breakfast inn to occur.
(6) The registration shall designate the resident owner or on-site manager residing on the
premises who can be contacted and is on the property twenty-four (24) hours per day
when the bed and breakfast is in operation, regarding any violation of the provisions of
this Section. The person set forth on the application shall be the representative of the
owner for immediate violation resolution purposes with regard to the bed and
breakfast inn. An annual operating registration shall not be valid unless the resident
owner and on-site manager employed by the owner (if different), sign the operating
registration application acknowledging all bed and breakfast inn regulations. If the
resident owner or on-site manager changes during the calendar year, it shall be the
responsibility of the property owner to notify the Town Clerk within fifteen (15) days of
change, and to ensure the on-site manager is knowledgeable of all bed and breakfast
inn regulations. If the property owner of record changes during the calendar year, it
shall be the responsibility of the new property owner of record to transfer the operating
registration into his/her name within fifteen (15) days of transfer of ownership, and to
ensure all other regulations in this Section are in compliance.
(7) State Sales Tax License. A condition of issuance of the annual operating permit shall
be proof of a current sales tax license.
(8) Violations. The relevant Decision-Making Entity may deny or withhold the renewal of
an operating registration until a violation related to such property, use or development
is corrected, in accordance with §12.4.A.1. The relevant Decision-Making Entity may
revoke or suspend the operating permit at any time in accordance with §12.4.A.2.
Operating the bed and breakfast inn during any such period of suspension or
revocation shall be a violation of this Code. Appeal to this section shall be made in
accordance with the appeals process in the Estes Valley Development Code.
(9) Nothing described herein shall limit the Town or County, within their respective
jurisdictions, from exercising other remedies and enforcement powers pursuant to
Chapter 12 of this Code or other penalties and enforcement powers as may be
available at law.
(10) The owner of the bed and breakfast inn, or an on-site manager employed by the
owner, shall reside on the premises at all times when the bed and breakfast is in
operation.
b. Estes Park Municipal Code. Properties located within the Town of Estes Park shall comply
with all the conditions and requirements set forth in the Town of Estes Park Municipal
Code, Chapter 5.20 (Business Licenses) In case of conflict between Chapter 5.20 and
provisions of §5.1.B of this Code, the provisions of §5.1.B of this Code shall control.
c. Residential Character. Bed and breakfast inns shall not be designed or operated in a
manner that is out of character with residential use of a dwelling unit by one (1) household.
This includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Except in the CD district, design shall be compatible, in terms of building scale, mass
and character, with low-intensity, low-scale residential use.
(2) Guest rooms shall be integrated within the bed and breakfast inn.
(3) Kitchen facilities shall be limited to be consistent with single-family residential use. No
kitchen facilities or cooking shall be allowed in the guest rooms.
(4) Accessory buildings shall not be used for amenities beyond a gazebo or similar
outdoor room.
(5) No changes in the exterior appearance shall be allowed to accommodate each bed
and breakfast inn, except that one (1) wall-mounted identification sign no larger than
four (4) square feet in area shall be permitted.
(6) Vehicular traffic and noise levels shall not be out of character with residential use.
d. Parking.
(1) Minimum Required Parking. Except in the CD Downtown Commercial zoning district,
the number of parking spaces available to a dwelling unit housing a bed and breakfast
inn shall not be reduced to less than two (2).
(2) Maximum Off-Street Parking—Residential Zoning Districts. This Section applies to all
vehicles that are not parked or stored in a fully enclosed garage. No more than a total
of four (4) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot of two (2) acres or less. No more
than a total of five (5) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot greater than two (2)
acres in size, but less than five (5) acres. No more than a total of six (6) vehicles shall
be parked or stored on a lot equal to, or greater than five (5) acres, but less than ten
(10) acres. No more than a total of eight (8) vehicles shall be parked or stored on a lot
equal to, or greater than ten (10) acres. The maximum number of vehicles parked off-
street on the bed and breakfast inn property shall not exceed the number of bedrooms
in the bed and breakfast inn.
(3) Maximum Off-Street Parking—Nonresidential Zoning Districts. Maximum parking for
bed and breakfast inns shall be regulated according to the parking standards
applicable to hotel, small."
e. Employee housing units as designated in §5.2.C.2 shall not be designated a bed and
breakfast inns as defined and regulated herein.
f. Attainable housing units as designated in §11.4 shall not be designated as bed and
breakfast inns as defined and regulated herein.
g. Accessory Dwelling Units. Bed and breakfast inns shall not be permitted on residential lots
containing an accessory dwelling. (See also §5.2.B.2.a, which prohibits rental of accessory
dwelling units regardless of the length of tenancy).
h. CD District. In the CD Downtown Commercial zoning district, such use shall not be located
on the ground floor of a building fronting on Elkhorn Avenue.
i. Density. Only one (1) bed and breakfast inn shall be permitted per residential dwelling unit.
j. Postings.
(1) Bed and breakfast inns in all zoning districts shall have a clearly legible notice posted
on-site. The posted notice shall be provided by the Community Development
Department once the operating-registration is initially applied for, shall be posted in a
prominent location inside the bed and breakfast inn prior to or during the initial
inspection, and shall remain posted in the same location for the duration of its use as
a bed and breakfast inn. The posted notice shall include standard contents as
determined and approved by the Community Development Department.
(2) Property Line Boundaries: The property owner or local representative shall inform all
occupants of property boundaries.
(3) Property owner or local representative shall include in all print or online advertising the
operating registration number in the first line of the property description.
(4) Advertising shall accurately represent the allowed use of the property, including the
maximum number of allowed occupants.
(5) Neighbor Notification. Prior to issuance of the initial annual operating permit, the
resident owner or designated manager residing on the premises shall be responsible
for mailing a written notice.
a) Notice shall be mailed, with certificate of mailing or other method as approved by
staff, to the owners of properties within one hundred (100) feet of the boundary of
the subject property.
b) Notices shall provide property address and 24/7 hotline phone number. a name
and telephone number of the resident owner or manager residing on the
premises. Any change in the resident owner or manager residing on the
premises shall require that the name and telephone number of the new resident
owner or manager residing on the premises be furnished to the Town Clerk and
owners of properties [within] fifteen (15) days of the change.
c) Proof of mailing shall be provided to the Community Development Director upon
issuance of initial annual operating permit.
2. All bed and breakfast inns shall also be subject to the following:
a. Occupancy.
(1) Maximum Occupancy—Eight-and-under occupants. The maximum allowable
occupancy shall be limited by a maximum of two (2) guests per bedroom plus two (2)
guests. The maximum allowable occupancy for an individual bed and breakfast Inn
shall be eight (8) occupants.
(2) Maximum Occupancy—Nine-and-over occupants. A residential structure with four (4)
or more sleeping rooms is permitted by special review in accordance with the S2
approval. The maximum occupancy in a nine-and-over occupant bed and breakfast
inn shall be as specified in the special review approval granted by the Town Board;
provided that occupancy shall be limited to a maximum of two (2) individuals per
sleeping room plus two (2) individuals per bed and breakfast inn.
(3) One bedroom shall be assigned to the resident owner or on-site manager and
therefore added to the maximum occupancy calculations in paragraphs (1) and (2)
above.
(4) Number of Parties, bed and breakfast inns. Bed and breakfast inns may be rented,
leased or furnished to one (1) or more parties.
b.Home Occupations. Home occupations may be operated on the site of a bed and breakfast
inn. Bed and breakfast inns may also offer limited ancillary services to guests, such as
offering classes/workshops to guests, provided they are in character with residential use.
[Accessory Uses (Including Home Occupations) and Accessory Structures, Chapter 5
EVDC §5.2.B.2.d (2006)]
c.Meal Service. Bed and breakfast inns may provide meals service to registered overnight
guests.
d.Bed and breakfast inns, whether new or existing structures, shall be subject to the
requirements of §7.9 (Exterior Lighting) for new development.
e.Bed and breakfast inns shall be required to meet applicable Building, Health and Fire
codes.
f.Bed and breakfast inns shall be subject to the requirements of the Wildlife Protection
Ordinances of their respective jurisdictions, and shall have wildlife resistant containers or
enclosures provided for the disposal of refuse. [For property in the Town see Chapter 7.20
Wildlife Protection of the Town of Estes Park Municipal Code. For property in
unincorporated Larimer County see Sections 30-261-277 Wildlife Protection through
Refuse Disposal of the Code of Larimer County Colorado.]
g.Bed and breakfast inns shall be subject to the requirements of the Sign Code of their
respective jurisdictions, and shall obtain sign permits as required. [For property in the Town
see Chapter 17.66 Signs of the Town of Estes Park Municipal Code. For property in
unincorporated Larimer County see Section 10.2 General Sign Regulations of the Code of
Larimer County Colorado.]
(Ord. 31-17, § 1(Exh. A))
Memo COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
To: Estes Valley Planning Commission
From: Jeffrey Woeber, Senior Planner
Date: March 19, 2019
RE: Amendment to the Estes Valley Development Code Regarding the “Park
and Recreation Facilities” Use: Revise the Definition, Revise the Permitted
Uses Tables, Add Specific Use Standards
Planning Commission Objective:
Review and provide a recommendation for a proposed text amendment to the Estes Valley
Development Code (EVDC), summarized as follows:
•Revise and expand the definition of “Park and Recreation Facility” in Chapter 13,
Definitions, Section 13.2, Use Classification/Specific Use Definitions and Examples, by
separating the definition into “Public” and Private.”
•Revise Chapter 4, Zoning Districts, Table 4 – 1, Permitted Uses: Residential Zoning
Districts by adding the revised use, “Park and Recreation Facilities – Public” as a use-
by-right in all Residential Zoning Districts.
•Revise Chapter 4, Zoning Districts, Table 4 – 4, Permitted Uses: Nonresidential Zoning
Districts by adding the revised use, “Park and Recreation Facilities – Public and Private”
as a use-by-right in the A, A-1, CD, CO, and O Nonresidential Zoning Districts.
•Revise Chapter 5, Use Regulations, Section 5.1, Specific Standards, by adding
standards applicable to Public Park and Recreation Facilities and to Private Park and
Recreation Facilities.
Code Amendment Objective:
To revise the “Park and Recreation Facilities” use in the EVDC to address issues and concerns
that have recently been raised, primarily with how the use is currently defined and regulated,
and that use being allowed to be established in a residential zoning district in the Estes Valley.
Exhibits 1a, 1b, and 1c, are attached, detailing the specific amendments.
Staff recommends the Estes Valley Planning Commission recommend approval of the language
in the Code Amendment Exhibits to the Town Board of Trustees and the Board of County
Commissioners.
MARCH 19, 2018 EVPC
CODE AMENDMENT, PARK AND RECREATION FACILITIES PAGE 2 OF 4
Background, Discussion:
The existing “Park and Recreation Facilities” use is currently allowed as a use-by-right in all
residential, and all but two of the non-residential zoning districts in the EVDC. This became a
significant issue recently with a Development Plan application and approval for a “Recreation
Facility” use that was allowed as a use-by-right in an RE, Rural Estate zoned area of the Estes
Valley.
With the concerns and opposition that was raised with that proposal, the Town of Estes Park
Board of Trustees and the Larimer Board of County Commissioners imposed a moratorium on
the acceptance and processing of any development applications for Park and Recreation
Facilities in residential zoning districts within the Estes Valley Development Code planning area.
This moratorium is currently through April 7, 2019. During that time, the Boards directed staff to
amend the EVDC, to where the “Park and Recreation Facilities” use would be better clarified
and defined, and where potential further issues could be avoided.
There have been a few attempts at a Code Amendment over the past couple of months, none of
which have been found viable by the Planning Commission, Town Staff, and/or County Staff.
This current Code conceptual approach has been drafted by Robert Leavitt, Chairman of the
Estes Valley Planning Commission. A proposal and explanation written by Chairman Leavitt is
attached. The Code Amendments attached as Attachments 2a through 2c were put together by
staff, in the standard Code Section Exhibit format.
Staff Findings:
The text amendments comply with EVDC §3.3.D (Code Amendments – Standards for Review).
§3.3.D Code Amendments, Standards for Review
“All rezoning and text amendments to the EVDC shall meet the following criteria:”
1.“The amendment is necessary to address changes in conditions in the areas
affected;”
Staff Finding:
Although this finding is to be made for a proposed Code Amendment, staff notes it is more
applicable to a rezoning (zoning map amendment). The Code Amendment is essentially
applicable to the Estes Valley planning area as a whole, and no specific area has been, or
will be affected.
2.“The development plan, which the proposed amendment to this Code would allow, is
compatible and consistent with the policies and intent of the Comprehensive Plan
and with existing growth and development patterns in the Estes Valley:”
Staff Finding:
There is no “development plan” associated with this, or any Code Amendment per se. The
Estes Valley Comprehensive Plan, under Chapter 6, Community Wide Policies, does have
various sections with recommendations regarding, for example, Land Use, Community
Design, Growth Management, Scenic and Environmental Quality. Although there are few
recommendations or policies that can be pinpointed to this Park and Recreation Facilities
Code Amendment specifically, in a general sense revising the EVDC as proposed is
compatible and consistent with the policies and intent of the Comprehensive Plan.
MARCH 19, 2018 EVPC
CODE AMENDMENT, PARK AND RECREATION FACILITIES PAGE 3 OF 4
3. “The Town, County or other relevant service providers shall have the ability to
provide adequate services and facilities that might be required if the application were
approved.”
Staff Finding:
Town, County or other relevant service providers would not be significantly impacted
regarding their respective services and facilities, if this Code Amendment is approved.
Advantages:
• Generally complies with the EVDC §3.3.D Code Amendments, Standards for Review.
• Clarifies and better defines the “Park and Recreation Facilities” use.
Disadvantages:
• Adds slightly to Code length and complexity.
Action Recommended:
Review the amendment for compliance with Estes Valley Development Code (EVDC) §3.3.D
Code Amendments, Standards for Review and forward a recommendation to the Estes Park
Town Board of Trustees and the Board of Larimer County Commissioners for a final decision to
approve.
Level of Public Interest
Medium. Some public comment has been received.
Written comments have been received for this proposal. All written comments are posted to:
www.estes.org/currentapplications.
Sample Motion:
APPROVAL
I move to recommend that the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees and the Board of Larimer
County Commissioners APPROVE the text amendment to the Estes Valley Development Code
as presented in the text amendment exhibits as recommended by staff, with findings as
recommended by staff.
CONTINUANCE
I move to CONTINUE this agenda item to the next regularly scheduled Planning Commission
meeting because…. (state reason(s) for continuance).
DENIAL
I move to recommend that the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees and the Board of Larimer
County Commissioners DENY the text amendment to the Estes Valley Development Code as
presented in the text amendment exhibits, finding that . . . (state reasons for denial).
Attachments:
Attachment 1 – Parks and Recreation Code Change Proposal, by EVPC Chairman Leavitt
Attachment 2a – c, “Exhibit Red”: 2a – EVDC, Section 13.4, Definition
2b – EVDC, Table 4 – 1 and 4 – 4 (Excerpts of Full Tables)
2c – EVDC, Section 5.1, Specific Use Standards
ATTAC
§ 13.2 - USE CLASSIFICATIONS/SPECIFIC USE DEFINITIONS AND EXAMPLES
C. Use Classification/Specific Use Definitions and Examples. This Section sets forth specific use
classifications in alphabetical order. A general definition is typically provided for each use classification,
and in many instances examples are provided of specific uses that fall within the broader use
classification. When a specific use example is provided, the example should satisfy both the broader
classification's general definition as well as the definition of the specific use, if provided. Finally, the
text may provide specific examples of uses that are not included in a particular use classification
(referred to in the text as "exceptions").
34.Park and Recreation Facilities. Parks, playgrounds, recreation facilities and open spaces.
This classification includes public parks, cemeteries, public squares, plazas, playgrounds,
ballfields, public recreation areas, nonprofit botanical gardens and nature preserves. Golf courses
are classified separately as a recreational use.
(Ord. 17-17, § 1(Exh. F))
34.Park and Recreation Facilities.
a.Park and Recreation Facilities – Public. Publicly owned parks, playgrounds, recreation
facilities and open spaces. Ownership is through public entities such as federal, state, county
and municipal government or a public recreation district. Golf courses are classified separately
as a recreational use.
b.Park and Recreation Facilities – Private. Privately owned and operated parks, playgrounds,
recreation facilities and open spaces. Golf courses are classified separately as a recreational
use.
Attachment 2A
§ 4.3 - Residential Zoning Districts
B. Table 4-1: Permitted Uses: Residential Zoning Districts.
Table 4-1
Permitted Uses: Residential Zoning Districts
Use Classification Specific
Use
Zoning Districts
Additional Regulations (Apply in All
Districts Unless Otherwise Stated )
"P" = Permitted by Right
"S1 or S2" = Permitted by Special
Review
"—" = Prohibited
RE-
1 RE E-
1 E R R-
1
R-
2 RM
INSTITUTIONAL, CIVIC AND PUBLIC USES
Park and Recreation
Facilities P P P P P P P P §3.13, Location & Extent Review
Park and Recreation
Facilities - Public P P P P P P P P §3.13, Location & Extent Review
Park and Recreation
Facilities - Private ________________
Attachment 2B
§ 4.4 - Nonresidential Zoning Districts
B. Table 4-4: Permitted Uses: Nonresidential Zoning Districts.
Table 4-4
Permitted Uses: Nonresidential Zoning Districts
Use Classification Specific
Use
Nonresidential Zoning Districts
Additional Regulations
(Apply in All Districts
Unless Otherwise Stated)
"P" = Permitted by Right
"S1 or S2" = Permitted by Special
Review
"—" = Prohibited
A A-1 CD CO O CH I-1
INSTITUTIONAL, CIVIC & PUBLIC USES
Park and Recreation Facilities P P P P P ——§3.13, Location & Extent
Review
Park and Recreation Facilities –
Public P P P P P ——§3.13, Location & Extent
Review
Park and Recreation Facilities –
Private P P P P P ——
Attachment 2B
CHAPTER 5. - USE REGULATIONS
§ 5.1 - SPECIFIC USE STANDARDS
This Section contains regulations that apply to specific uses or classes of uses.
W. Park and Recreation Facilities. Park and Recreation Facilities shall be divided into two
classifications: Public, and Private, as defined in the EVDC Section 13.2.C.34.a. and 13.2.C.34.b.
1.Public Park and Recreation Facilities include traditional public parks, cemeteries, public
squares, plazas, playgrounds, ballfields, nature preserves, botanical gardens, and other indoor
and outdoor recreation facilities owned by public entities such as federal, state, county and
municipal government or a recreation district. Temporary commercial and non-commercial uses
are allowed through a temporary use permit as specified in EVDC Section 5.3. Public Park and
Recreation Facilities are permitted in most zoning districts as listed in Tables 4 – 1 and 4 – 4.
Public Park and Recreation Facilities in non-residential zoning districts may have private
concessions and rental arrangements for use of facilities therein. Public Park and Recreation
Facilities in residential zoning districts are not permitted to have private concessions and rental
arrangements for facilities therein. A Location and Extent Review is required to establish or
modify a Public Park and Recreation Facility.
2.Private Park and Recreation Facilities include privately owned and operated commercial and
non-commercial parks, playgrounds, ballfields, nonprofit botanical gardens, nature preserves,
cemeteries and other private indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. Private Park and
Recreation Facilities are not permitted in residential zoning districts (See Table 4 – 1). Private
Park and Recreation Facilities are permitted in most non-residential zoning districts (See Table 4
–4).
Attachment 2C