Mexico's City Council approved changes to section 42 of the city code during last Monday's regular meeting. The alterations set a limit on minimum square footage, refine the definition of accessory …
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Mexico's City Council approved changes to section 42 of the city code during last Monday's regular meeting. The alterations set a limit on minimum square footage, refine the definition of accessory and nonconforming structures and regulate the size of outbuildings.
The city's Planning and Zoning Commission had previously approved the changes.
According to new language applied to the zoning code, minimum square footage of a new house in a zoned residential area would be established by determining the average living space of neighboring homes. The measure also states that new dwellings must be larger than 600 square feet.
New language bans shipping containers or other units designed for the transport of materials — such as 18 wheeler trailers and truck beds — from use as permanent storage units. Accessory buildings such as garages and storage sheds in residential districts will no longer be allowed to be larger than the residence on a homeowner's property.
"An accessory structure is also a secondary structure," explained city manager Bruce Slagle. "If it is larger, it is no longer secondary."
Members of the public who addressed the council expressed concern over this aspect of the updates. But Slagle pointed out that the changes clarified language that had left many rules open for interpretation.
He added that the approved additions would eliminate confusion going forward.
Amendments to the code include a definition of nonconforming building, such as structures that to not meet height or setback requirements of a district.
"We have always used the term nonconforming use," community development director Rita Jackson said, pointed out that the new language was necessary.
In the past, homeowners wishing to do construction on an existing structure that did not meet proper use regulations would be forced to tear down the building and restart. The new nonconforming building language allows for reconstruction within the set limits.
The council adopted the changes by a vote of 4-1. Council member Steve Haag, who questioned the 600 square foot limit, was the lone vote of opposition.
