Issue

Every residential district except the Single-Family Residential (RSF) district specifies both a maximum height and maximum number of stories for accessory structures. The RSF district only specifies a maximum height which leads to confusion as to whether or not multi-story accessory structures are permitted.

Summary

The City Code limits both the height and numbers of stories for accessory structures in all residential districts, with the exception of the RSF district where the maximum number of stories an accessory structure is permitted is not specified. This leads to confusion as to whether or not residents in the RSF district can build two-story detached structures. One- and two-story accessory structures tend to have different designs, uses, and impacts on surrounding parcels.  Due to the higher potential for two-story accessory structures to adversely impact surrounding properties, staff believes accessory structures in the RSF district should be limited to a single-story. This limit would be consistent with the limit placed on accessory structures in the other non-large lot residential districts.

The following sections of the Chanhassen City Code are subject to changes:

• Section 20-904 governs the placement and maximum size (foot print) of accessory structures.
• Section 20-615(h)(2) limits accessory structures in the RSF district to 20 feet in height.
• Ordinance 80 passed in December of 1986 limited accessory structures in the RSF district to three stories/40 feet in height.
• Ordinance 145 passed in April of 1991 changed the limit to 20 feet in height. 

Related Resources

Issue Paper