HomeMy WebLinkAbout09132007 ZPC Agenda Item 2
I
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING OLD STOCK
HOUSING; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES;
CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission (`Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
• 0
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on , 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to OLD STOCK
HOUSING
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. Under the existing definition of "old
stock housing," housing does not qualify if it had more than
1,700 square feet of gross floor area when built. This proposal
would eliminate that size restriction (but keep the requirement
that the house be more than 40 years old). Changing the
definition would affect not only the zoning ordinance but also
other building-related ordinances (see Section 18-20 of the Code
of Ordinances).
The principal purpose is to expand the definition of and
preserve and encourage the renovation of "old stock housing."
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By
For the Commission
Amendment relating to
definition of
"old stock housing"
(base version)
9-13-07
Amend the definition of "old stock housing" as follows:
Old stock housing. One or more buildings on a SFD site meeting all the following
criteria: (i) the principal building was built more than 40 years previously
of 1,700 s,,,,,, .v root , , and (ii) the gross floor area of all buildings on the site does not
currently exceed 3,400 square feet.
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Old Stock Housing. Under the existing definition of "old
stock housing," housing does not qualify if it had more
than 1,700 square feet of gross floor area when built.
This proposal would eliminate that size restriction (but
keep the requirement that the house be more than 40 years
old). Changing the definition would affect not only the
zoning ordinance but also other building-related ordinances
(see Section 18-20 of the Code of ordinances).
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the zoning ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current zoning ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING OLD STOCK
HOUSING; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES;
CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
• •
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
• •
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on , 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
• •
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to OLD STOCK
HOUSING
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. Under the existing definition of "old
stock housing," housing does not qualify if: (i) it had more
than 1,700 square feet of gross floor area when built, or (ii)
it currently has more than 3,400 square feet of gross floor
area. This proposal would: (i) eliminate the 1,700-square-foot
original size restriction (but keep the requirement that the
housing be more than 40 years old), and (ii) change the current
size restriction from 3,400 square feet to "twice the gross
floor area of all the buildings on the site when originally
built." Changing this definition would affect not only the
zoning ordinance but also other building-related ordinances (see
Section 18-20 of the Code of Ordinances).
The principal purpose is to expand the definition of and
preserve and encourage the renovation of "old stock housing."
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
• 0
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By:
For the Commission
0 0
Amendment relating to
definition of
"old stock housing"
(alternate version)
9-13-07
Amend the definition of "old stock housing" as follows:
Old stock housing. One or more buildings on a SFD site meeting all the following
criteria: (i) the principal building was built more than 40 years previously with a gross floor- area
of inn feet or and (ii) the gross floor area of all buildings on the site does not square -fendy exceed 3,400 squar-e .1-- exceed twice the gross floor area of all the buildings on the
site when originally built.
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Old Stock Housing. Under the existing definition of "old
stock housing," housing does not qualify if: (i) it had
more than 1,700 square feet of gross floor area when built,
or (ii) it currently has more than 3,400 square feet of
gross floor area. This proposal would: (i) eliminate the
1,700-square-foot original size restriction (but keep the
requirement that the housing be more than 40 years old),
and (ii) change the current size restriction from 3,400
square feet to "twice the gross floor area of all the
buildings on the site when originally built." Changing
this definition would affect not only the zoning ordinance
but also other building-related ordinances (see Section 18-
20 of the Code of Ordinances).
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
j • •
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING GARAGES IN SIDE
YARDS; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES; CONTAINING
FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO THE SUBJECT;
AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
• •
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the city Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to GARAGES IN SIDE
YARDS
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. Note 5 of Table 7-6 of the current
zoning ordinance allows some building space (e.g., rear garage)
to "project" into an interior side yard, but not closer than
three feet to the property line. This proposal would revise
Note 5 as follows: (i) clarify that eaves may project closer to
the side property line, (ii) clarify that stairways may be in
the projecting part of the building, (iii) provide that certain
openings may be "translucent (but not transparent)," and (iv)
revise and tighten some wording.
The principal purpose is to clarify the status of eaves,
stairways and openings under Note 5.
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By
For the Commission
Amendment relating to FT,
garages in side yards
(Table 7-6)
Revised 09-13-07
Amend Note 5 of Table 7-6 as follows:
Note 5. Garages In Side Yards. A buildfiig nuiv, project tf~NVM(l ari interior side ro em, line 0iot
a side strc',~ t: lizac t it it ~a?eets all ?lay Ic>llowIrag c°ritc pia. iiiiis" fiieef all of,
(a) - jiaq of tine 1)ttilding tnaN be closer than lt-~~~-1?~ a~ three feet f rto the
side property line 1.KM~i. on Eaves may betas close .as..24 Incltcs-_ =t
(b) The projecting part may only contain garage space and space above the garage f
(c) Any projecting part must be at least seventy feet from the front street line.
(d) Within ten feet of another building site in an SF District (whether on the side, rear or
otherwise), it-tlae ba.Cilding may have no window, door or other opening above the ground floor
(and facing the property line of the other building site), _r~t3 101> : `FlIere IlIaN be e"tt; -440-F
e€l'aw igcer t-tbt[t riot transl~gcpt), non-operable openings or skylights.
i
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Garages In Side Yards. Note 5 of Table 7-6 of the current
zoning ordinance allows some building space (e.g., rear
garage) to "project" into an interior side yard, but not
closer than three feet to the property line. This proposal
would revise Note 5 as follows: (i) clarify that eaves may
project closer to the side property line, (ii) clarify that
stairways may be in the projecting part of the building,
(iii) provide that certain openings may be "translucent
(but not transparent)," and (iv) revise and tighten some
wording.
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the zoning ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current zoning ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
i ~
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING DEFINITION OF
STRUCTURES; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES;
CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
• •
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
• •
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on , 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to DEFINITION OF
STRUCTURES
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. Under the existing definition of
"structure," certain criteria contribute to define what a
structure is. The proposal adds a 180 day window by which a
structure remains in one place if it weighs more than 250 pounds
or is attached to the ground or a structure.
The principal purpose is to amend the definition of
"structure" to help with enforcement.
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
i
•
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By
For the Commission
•
Amendment relating to
definition of
"structures"
9-13-07
Amend the definition of "structure" as follows:
Structure . Anything made by humans which: (1) is not readily portable; (ii) is usually left
in one location for an indefinite period of time; or (iii) requires either permanent or fixed location
on or in the ground or attachment to something having a permanent or fixed location on or in the
ground for its use. Examples of structures, which do not limit this definition, are: sculptures;
lampposts; sidewalks; driveways; playground equipment and facilities; buildings; flagpoles;
antennas and pools. A Human-made object that remains in one location for 180 days or longcr is
presumed to be a stricture if it weighs more than 250 pounds or is attached to the ground (or a
structure); this presumption is rebutable.
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Definition of Structures.
Amends the definition of a structure by adding a 180 day
window by which a structure remains in one place if it weighs
more than 250 pounds or is attached to the ground or a
structure.
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
•
Sallye Clark
From: Jeffrey Horowitz Dhorowitz@craincaton.com]
Sent: Wednesday, September 12, 2007 4:40 PM
To: Sallye Clark; Brown Steve - ZPC (E-mail)
Subject: ZPC Meeting
2007091217084898
3.pdf (109 KB)...
Dear Sallye and Steve,
I will be unable to attend tomorrow nights meeting. I did, however, want to raise one
point with respect to garage size. At our last meeting, we discussed garages sized with
20' openings and began discussions about the size of loading areas in front of garages. I
tend to think that a mandatory 20' opening might be too big for garages on
smaller (50 x 100) lots. In these cases, a 16' opening may be
perfectly workable. I have attached a copy of the plan from my house which shows this.
From my experience, a sixteen foot entry can work for both a SW and a full size car.
Also, as we were beginning to discuss at the last meeting, I do not believe the loading
area in front of the garage needs to mirror the space inside the garage. Maneuverability
can be adequately accomplished with less area, as shown on the attached plan.
Regards,
Jeff
Jeffrey I. Horowitz
Crain Caton & James
1401 McKinney, Suite 1700
Houston, Texas 77010
Tel: 713.752.8622
Fax: 713.658.1921
1
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City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING GARAGES,
MANEUVERING AREA, ETC.; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND
NOTICES; CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS
RELATING TO THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
f • •
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on , 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to GARAGES,
MANEUVERING AREA, ETC.
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. The proposal would: (i) require at
least two garage parking spaces per house (or one per house, for
old stock housing) in single-family districts (SF Districts);
(ii) require such garage parking spaces to be enclosed or semi-
enclosed and adjoining a driveway; (iii) change the formula for
the maximum number of garage parking spaces; (iv) specify
minimum garage parking space dimensions in SF Districts; (v)
specify minimum garage maneuvering areas in SF Districts; and
(vi) specify when structures above driveways must be
cantilevered or suspended. The proposal includes some
clarifying changes and reorganization.
The principal purpose is to require more garage spaces and
make them readily usable.
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
f • •
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By:
For the Commission
Amendment relating
to garages, maneuvering area, etc.
9-13-07
Amend Table 7-4a as follows:
General Rule Every building site, garage space and related structure must
Table 7-4a: conform to the applicable regulations shown, by District, in this table. ("N/A"
means the rule does not apply.) Exceptions/Special Rules: (1) See special rules
Garage space noted in table. (3) See Article 9 regarding Planned Development Districts. (3)
See Note 1 regarding special exceptions.
SF-1 SF-2 SF-3 TH GR- GR G
Item Regulation 1 2
, , Min 2.0 per DU_
Garage Garage Min _ L-02,, per DU 1,_0 ,
space, in parking ? ` C,:, ) inust be t* +3R
~z l=.>.s_. r, enclosed-
general spaces. See
A_rticle 10. Max,Srimii:. 1.0 per of building site
area, not to exceed 4.0.
Minimum '.V ;0 i
t i. _ 12 ft. wide r;,>z
- - - -
garage 25 ft. deep _
dimen-
sions
Garage Maneuvers°: <.a :'1.:7-.
doors or ing area
openings
Door or Prohibited unless: (i) the garage door is set back ten (May affect eligibility
opening feet or more from the front yard, and (ii) there is as QMDS. See
facing only open area above the driveway for at least definitions in Article 2.)
front seven feet inward from the front yard, and (iii) any
street line. structure above the driveway ~.rF
_must be cantilevered or suspended
from the building (no special posts or vertical
supports being allowed).
Door or Prohibited unless: (i) the garage door is set back ten (May affect eligibility
opening feet or more from the side street line, and (ii) there as QMDS. See
facing side is only open area above the driveway for at least definitions in Article 2.)
street line seven feet inward from the side street line, and (iii)
any structure above the driveway E
must be cantilevered or
suspended from the building (no special posts or
vertical supports being allowed).
Garage Limit on Max. 600 sq. ft. GFA in any accessory building N/A
accessory non-garage containing garage space.
buildings space
}
Note 1. Special Exceptions. The ZBA may issue a special exception for a parking area, garage or driveway in
another location or with a different design than prescribed by this table, if it finds that: W the other location or
design will not unreasonably interfere with available light and air and will not significantly alter access for fire-
fighting and similar needs; GO the other location or design will prevent the destruction of a qualified tree; (iii) in
the case of the remodeling of a principal building, the location requested is the same location as an existing
parking area, garage or driveway; or GO the location or design requested is necessary for safety considerations.
A lt,i _.-.rclsf}...Jl k..z..={.~2.3-;. ..,v14ek b_r I.
r3-~°E ra~-
Amend the second page of Table 7-4a in the same manner as shown above, so that: (i)
changes applicable to SF Districts apply to "PDD-SF" Districts and (ii) changes
applicable to the TH District apply to "PDD-TH" Districts (but not PDD-C).
Amend subsection (c) of Section 10-102 as follows:
(c) f ~,,4 _ Maneuvering Areas. In addition to the minimum dimensions
for parking spaces, there must be sufficient driveways and other maneuvering areas
to allow ordinary, practical use of each E .F~ <„,parking space; ~t
~t)~~.€l\S it
' - =.a. a ..:cz:.• .Gx t cx a ,
1 e t_!ttF:1T,€' <LE;t't';,-; to (:'o{',`z.
~~~~~_'.~~~`m,~t 1 `4'_E?l~Lltl~.'_~^l3_m€.~~:_ ~~~€'_~E'.I~)~1~~,~ } ^d._:ti2~SiI£•l:tt€ 41Y:1~~1i'(-'<P
<Illltc C, <iT t4't1T?~~ttht 11{ ' 3E i;` ~EIlltlt. f=Or Sj` tt (0 t I€: tl1inonun
v rl~ r i. ,t%fficia cletei'ml_ze , t l11t i diff kept eoiifli nj <tOn t wi91 rill€ w
k ? ~I E t`:l i { 1FF'l kt) t tt(t 3. 3ti l b(3, 3. t t a}~} _to f l..............
.W....... . l li Lil €l l I2 1 t )k (I ntj'IfLfl it€1C (I1) t.lzE: cLl may I)o locclt.'€e
i the l u lili H or tl.?.....t tL IE;I~ Ic €lt tre t re i, { s r 2t d\ In C 3t 11 I o it r_.
; sQ•l 1. ` C':~, d a;1 IM"Ini-I :f ff. ,Fst =m d ? 1l'.. Nyi(lei- t-ll ~tl 0-
-3 F [f.' kT,sz f € < i a )F' t ? t -'91 tt! t t.~tt ' ~(i e1i1<:
(2) Maneuvering areas may not be counted toward the required number of
parking spaces (except on sites with SFD use only).
(3) Maneuvering areas _t, t_ v must
be o L, ? _ sized and arranged so that a large vehicle can leave the street
driving forward, enter any required parking space driving forward, park in
that space, and then re-enter the street area driving forward, all with no
more than two stops to change directions. As used in this section, "large
vehicle" means a truck 18 feet long, with a turning radius of 24 feet (outside
of bumper
~ A-._. ~2r l l~ i.x t? _!}id;' < t t k t 3tlz `tbmxl.' It ~ iC1{ €;;~at :moi 1 ~1 ?1 1!
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Garages, Maneuvering Area, Etc. The proposal would: (i)
require at least two garage parking spaces per house (or
one per house, for old stock housing) in single-family
districts (SF Districts); (ii) require such garage parking
spaces to be enclosed or semi-enclosed and adjoining a
driveway; (iii) change the formula for the maximum number
of garage parking spaces; (iv) specify minimum garage
parking space dimensions in SF Districts; (v) specify
minimum garage maneuvering areas in SF Districts; and (vi)
specify when structures above driveways must be
cantilevered or suspended. The proposal includes some
clarifying changes and reorganization.
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
•
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING DRIVEWAYS AND
PARKING; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES;
CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
September 13, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to DRIVEWAYS AND
PARKING
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. The proposal would: (i) specify a 10-
foot minimum driveway width (unobstructed vehicular path); (ii)
require hard-surfaced pavement for most vehicular areas; (iii)
require, in addition to garage parking spaces, an extra parking
space between the garage and the public roadway. The proposal
mainly applies to single-family detached houses (SFD use). It
includes details for measurement and locations, some cross-
referencing and a special rule for some prior non-conforming
driveways.
The principal purposes are to make driveways easier to use
and require extra parking spaces that would not block sidewalks.
Such an extra space could also be used as a loading or unloading
area.
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners voted
"aye;" no "noes;" absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By:
For the Commission
Amendment relating
to driveways and parking
9-13-07
Amend table 7-5a as follows:
General Rule Every building site, vehicular area and related structure must
Table 7-5a: conform to the applicable regulations shown, by District, in this table. ("N/A"
means the rule does not apply.) Exceptions/Special Rules: (1) See special
Parking, driveways, etc. rules noted in table. (3) See Article 9 regarding Planned Development
Districts. (3) See Note 7 regarding special exceptions. (4) See Article 10.
Item Regulation SF•1 SF-2 SF-3 TH GR-1 GR-2 C
Off-street parking Number, Depends on land use, layout, etc. See this Tahle, Tahle 7-4a, and Article 10
spaces and location, size, (including maneuveringareas, design regcurements. "same site "rule, yards,
parking areas design street areas, loading spaces, etc.).
Grouping or Not allowed, except in a QMDS platted parking reserve serving two or more
Other regulations sharing. DU's. But see Note 2.
apply: see, e.g.
Article 10 Use of parking Parking spaces for non-SFD uses may only be used for motor vehicle parking.
areas See Note 3.
Emergency Minimum 20 ft, via public or private street, to each principal building and each DU (or
accessway width. to an adjacent open area accessible to firefighters and equipment). Other
See Note 1. regulations also apply, e.g, fire code.
Driveways and Minimum:"_ € . i
private streets width. For non-SFD residential use 10 feet, or 17 feet if two-way and serving three
See Note 1, or more DU's.
Other regulations
apply: see, e.g. Maximum For SFD use= G) Driveway serving any single-bay garage- 12 feet. (ii)
Article 10. width Driveway in a front yard serving rear garage or side-facing garage: 12
feet. (iii) Driveway in side street area of a corner site serving a side-
facing garage with three or more bays: 30 feet. (iv) Any other driveway:
See Note 1. 20 feet.
For other residential uses: 24 ft. (or 35 feet if connecting to a major
thoroughfare).
For ~ e ( other use-,: 30 feet (or 35 feet if connecting to a major
thoroughfare).
Maximum For non-SFD uses: 160 feet, driving distance to the nearest street area,
length measured along centerline from farthest end point. A longer driveway is
allowed if there is an approved turnaround or second means of egress, or
if the driveway is platted as part of the common area in a QMDS.
Route, location See Note 6. N/A
Spacing For non-SFD uses: There must be at least 40 feet between the "inside" apron
edges (at their narrowest points) of driveways serving the same building
site.
Pavement Required type For SFD use: Hard surfaced pavement required for
"ribbons" of pavement
are permitted'
For all other uses: Reinforced concrete, with curbs and drains required for all
vehicular areas EXCeptlons f See Table 3 (pervious pavement) and
Noted
Markings: wheel Required type For non-SFD uses: Parking spaces must be clearly marked on the pavement,
stops. and wheel stops are required. See Note 12.
Curb cuts Number For SFD use: Maximum one per subdivided lot abutting the street.
For non-SFD use; : Maximum one per 50-ft. segment of street line.
Other regulations See Note 5.
apply; see, e.g.
Article 10. Max. width per Four feet (for aprons) plus the maximum driveway width allowed. Each curb
50-ft. segment cut must be confined to the part of the street area that directly abuts the
of street line building site(s) served. See Note 1.
Visibility triangles Forbidden The following are forbidden on parts of a building site within a visibility
See definitions structures, triangle: structures, plants or other things taller than 2.0 ft. or shorter than
in Article 2 plants and 8.0 ft. This does not require removal of trees in existence on July 1, 1992, if
other things kept pruned.
Note 1. Width measurement methods . Minimum driveway width refers to tr:h,-unobstructed vehicular access
path and,
E pavement. Maximum driveway width refers to maximum width of pavement
in a front yard or street area, excluding complying curb cut aprons. Maximum curb cut width refers to
the width of the driveway plus aprons, measured at the edge of the roadway.
[Remaining notes not amended]
Amend the second page of Table 7-5a in the same manner as shown above, so that
each change also applies to each PDD.
Amend the top two lines of the table in Section 10-100 (Off Street Parking) as follows;
Use or tvpe of space Minimum number of parking spaces
SFD LISe €x a _..H i lwF 'l-hEda tm u ~Y.
s.4tdLtl` 'tt'.1~L 'i::d.` h 3 3i.i~ ~1E:5 ?2E~3~1C Ii?fEt~~.b?t 4'. ~ lit°..
AIL€Efilii~ S t.1C E'1 i;1~' h oo di c htlfl 111 9 : itc of iii the
IE l~.WC1 lit. I wi oa iik"...(il C IS: ? N !t lnaI Sot
2 t is..I iip ~_>Il t~ I?;. l <...l~t.- IitCIZ 3..~G {C < -I7il~
z
Amend subsection (g) of Section 12-103 as follows:
(g) Drivewavs. If the PNC item is non-compliance with driveway regulations in an SF
District, PNC status is lost if: (i) a new driveway is constricted, (ii) an existing
driveway is either replaced or expanded, or (iii) space is added to the principal
building so that its gross floor area is increased to 200 percent or more of its gross
floor area on the 1987 effective date ; i i' p%ij
3 IE , . ,
~ j z „F =1'
-
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Driveways and parking. The proposal would: (i) specify a
10-foot minimum driveway width (unobstructed vehicular
path); (ii) require hard-surfaced pavement for most
vehicular areas; (iii) require, in addition to garage
parking spaces, an extra parking space between the garage
and the public roadway. The proposal mainly applies to
single-family detached houses (SFD use). It includes
details for measurement and locations, some cross-
referencing and a special rule for some prior non-
conforming driveways.
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING BUILDINGS IN
REAR YARDS; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND NOTICES;
CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS RELATING TO
THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
August 9, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to BUILDINGS IN
REAR YARDS
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. Note 3 of Table 7-6 of the current
zoning ordinance allows some building space (e.g., accessory
buildings, garage space) to "project" into a rear yard. This
proposal would revise Note 3 to provide that certain openings
may be "translucent (but not transparent)."
The principal purpose is to clarify Note 3.
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners
voted
' t
"aye' • " no "noes;
Jt:iru ,absent .
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
c=
By
For the Commission
' i •
Amendment relating to
buildings in rear yard
(Table 7-6)
8-9-2007
Amend Note 3 of Table 7-6 as follows:
Note 3. Buildings In Rear Yard or SF Bufferyard. A building maybe located in a rear yard or SF
Bufferyard if it meets all of the following criteria: (a) No part of 4
may be closer than five feet to the rear property line (or to any SF District, if in a
SF Bufferyard). (b) Within ten feet of another building site in an SF District
(whether on the side, rear or otherwise), it may have no window, door or other
opening above the ground floor (and facing the property line of the other building
site), except for opaque rran,lucent l.hut not non-operable openings
or skylights. (c) Space in any projecting building may only be used for single-
family (detached) use. (d) A principal building may not project unless the ground
floor of the projecting part is at least 51 % garage space, and there is no more than
600 square feet of building space, other than garage space, in the projecting part.
See garage restrictions in Article 10.
Exhibit B
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Buildings In Rear Yards. Note 3 of Table 7-6 of the current
zoning ordinance allows some building space (e.g.,
accessory buildings, garage space) to "project" into a rear
yard. This proposal would revise Note 3 to provide that
certain openings may be "translucent (but not
transparent)."
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary
City of West University Place
Harris County, Texas
Ordinance No.
AN ORDINANCE CALLING A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING ON A
PROPOSAL TO AMEND THE ZONING ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS REGARDING MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT IN REAR YARDS; PRESCRIBING PROCEDURES AND
NOTICES; CONTAINING FINDINGS AND OTHER PROVISIONS
RELATING TO THE SUBJECT; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY.
WHEREAS, the Zoning and Planning Commission ("Z&PC") of the City of West
University Place, Texas ("City") has submitted a preliminary report on a proposal to
amend the comprehensive zoning ordinance of the City, as last reformatted and re-
adopted by Ordinance No. 1672, adopted March 12, 2001, and as amended thereafter
("Zoning Ordinance"); and
WHEREAS, the Z&PC's preliminary report is attached to this ordinance as
Exhibit A and made a part of this ordinance by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City Council desires to call a joint public hearing on such
proposal;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE:
Section 1. The City Council hereby calls a joint public hearing before the City
Council and Z&PC on the proposal described in Exhibit A. Unless rescheduled, the
hearing shall be held in the Council Chamber of the Municipal Building, 3800 University
Boulevard, West University Place, Texas 77005 during the City Council meeting set to
begin at 6:30 p.m. on . The hearing may be recessed and continued
to the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on at the same
place, unless rescheduled. The City Manger may reschedule either date and time, or
both, to accommodate other pending matters, but the rescheduled date(s) and time(s)
may not be later than 30 days past the later of the two dates set by this ordinance.
Section 2. The purpose for the hearing is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to the proposal described in Exhibit A
Section 3. The procedures for adoption of the proposal shall be as follows: (1)
notice as required by this ordinance, (2) hearing as called by this ordinance, (3) report
by the Z&PC, and (4) vote by the City Council on the question of adoption. The
procedures for enforcing the proposal shall be as set out in the existing Zoning
Ordinance. The proposal described in Exhibit A is hereby submitted and re-submitted
to the Z&PC for its consideration.
%IWI I T. 1 I I0 VIIV UGI.I GLnI V .111A11 UIV(- I It 11 ll .t- l 11 1111 J I I It-III 111(] 111 I /I r.1l :1 If ]H.(l I IV
Section 4. The City Secretary shall give notice of such hearing as prescribed by
this section. The notice shall be in substantially the form set out in Exhibit B, which is
attached and made a part of this ordinance by reference. The notice shall be published
in the City's official newspaper (or another newspaper of general circulation in the City)
at least once on or before the 16th day preceding the date of the hearing. In addition,
the notice shall be mailed to the persons on the mailing list for the City Currents
newsletter. The notices shall be deposited in the United States mail on or before ninth
day preceding the date of the hearing, properly addressed with postage prepaid. The
notices may be included within the newsletter, or with utility bills or may be separate.
The City Council specifically approves giving combined notice of two or more hearings
in a single notice document, as this would save money and also provide better
information about the full scope of possible amendments to all interested persons.
Section 5. The City staff is authorized to make all necessary arrangements for
the hearing and to assist the Zoning and Planning Commission and the City Council.
Section 6. If any word, phrase, clause, sentence, paragraph, section or other
part of this ordinance, or the application thereof to any person or circumstance, shall
ever be held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, the
remainder of this ordinance and the application of such word, phrase, clause, sentence,
paragraph, section or other part of this ordinance to any other persons or circumstances
shall not be affected thereby. All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith
are hereby repealed to the extent of the conflict only.
Section 7. The City Council officially finds, determines and declares that
sufficient written notice of the date, hour, place and subject of each meeting at which
this ordinance was discussed, considered or acted upon was given in the manner
required by the Open Meetings Law, Chapter 551, Texas Government Code, as
amended, and that such meeting has been open to the public as required by law at all
times during such discussion, consideration and action. The City Council ratifies,
approves and confirms such notices and the contents and posting thereof.
Section 8. Because the proposal to amend the Zoning Ordinance is vitally
important and should be considered at the earliest possible date, a state of emergency
is declared requiring that this ordinance be read and adopted finally at this meeting.
Accordingly, this ordinance shall be adopted finally on first reading and shall become
effective immediately upon adoption and signature.
t
PASSED, APPROVED, ADOPTED AND SIGNED on , 20
Attest/Seal: Signed:
City Secretary Mayor
Recommended: Prepared:
City Manager James L. Dougherty, Jr.
Approved as to legal form:
City Attorney
forms/ORD 54 o calling zoning hearing 7-06
Exhibit A
Zoning & Planning Commission
City of West University Place, Texas
3800 University Boulevard
West University Place, Texas 77005
July 12, 2007
Honorable Mayor &
Members of the City Council
City of West University Place
3808 University Boulevard
Houston, Texas 77005
Subject: Preliminary report on a proposal to amend the
zoning ordinance of the City of West University
Place, Texas ("City") relating to MECHANICAL
EQUIPMENT IN REAR YARDS
To the Honorable Mayor
& Members of City Council:
The Zoning & Planning Commission of the City submits this,
its preliminary report, on the subject proposal, for the
assistance of the Council as well as other interested persons.
Scope of Proposal. The current ordinance requires
mechanical equipment (e.g., air conditioning equipment) located
in a rear yard to be installed near the ground. The proposal
would allow replacement equipment to be installed on an elevated
structure, if there is older equipment lawfully installed on
that structure. The proposal would require a wall (at least 500
solid, such as lattice) to separate the equipment from the rear
lot line.
The principal purpose is to allow replacement equipment to
be installed where there is existing equipment, which should
help to avoid expensive retrofitting and help to save energy
(retrofitting generally involves longer coolant lines, which are
less efficient).
Preliminary Recommendation. Based on the limited review
given this matter so far, and subject to further review
following public hearing, the Commission: (i) finds that the
proposal, if adopted, would be in the public interest, (ii)
makes a preliminary recommendation favorable to the proposal,
(ii) recommends that the City Council call a joint public
hearing to consider this matter. The Commission invites all
interested persons to participate in the joint public hearing.
The Vote. The vote on approval of this report was as
follows: Commissioners Inaba ~~OWrI~ fb(C 'Vt and MCMVIU-5 voted
"aye;" no "noes;" below k) .d rT ba) absent.
Respectfully submitted:
ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE
CITY OF WEST UNIVERSITY PLACE, TEXAS
By:
For the Commission
Amendment relating to
mechanical equipment
in rear yard
(Table 7-6)
7-9-07
Amend Note 6 of Table 7-6 as follows:
Note 6. Equipment In Rear or Side Yard.
REAR YARD: Indicated equipment may project into a rear yard only if. (a) separating the
equipment from any building site across the rear lot line, there is a solid wall at least one foot
higher than the highest part of the equipment; (b) if the equipment occupies any part of an
easement under the control of the City, the City has issued a separate acquiescence or consent to
the occupancy of the easement; (c) there has been formally granted to the city any utility
easement deemed necessary by the City's chief utility official; (d) the base of the equipment is
not higher than 14 inches above the ground (Exception: the base may be elevated to the
minimum level of the lowest floor of the principal building, as established by the City's flood
damage prevention ordinance, if that level is higher than 14 inches above the ground.), and (e) if
located within five feet of any property line, the equipment is fully encased in a sound-absorbing
cabinet or is otherwise designed and operated to comply with the City's noise regulations; see
Chapter 54 of the Code of Ordinances.
SIDE YARD: Indicated equipment may project into an interior or street side yard (but not closer
than three feet to a property line) only if it is fully encased in a sound-absorbing cabinet, or is
otherwise designed and operated to comply with the City's noise regulations; see Chapter 54 of
the Code of Ordinances. However, equipment replacing older equipment in a side yard may
project as close as 18 inches to a property line, if the fire marshal determines that such projection
will not significantly interfere with emergency access, either on the same site or on another site
NEW AND REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT: These rules apply to all new and replacement
equipment. Exc! ption: If older equipment was lawfully installed on an elevated structure in a
rear yard, replacement equipment may be installed on the same structure in the same location. If
the older equipment was lawfully installed without the required separating wall the wall must be
provided but it may be either solid or at least 50% solid (e.g., lattice) All other rules apply.
• •
Exhibit 8
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
The Zoning & Planning Commission and the City Council of the
City of West University Place, Texas ("City") will hold joint
public hearings in the Council Chamber of the Municipal
Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005 during
the City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 PM on
. Each hearing may be recessed and continued to the
City Council meeting set to begin at 6:30 p.m. on
, at the same place. The purpose
for the hearings is to provide an opportunity for parties in
interest and citizens to be heard in relation to proposal(s) to
amend the City's Zoning Ordinance, as follows:
Mechanical Equipment in Rear Yard. The current ordinance
requires mechanical equipment (e.g., air conditioning
equipment) located in a rear yard to be installed near the
ground. This proposal would allow replacement equipment to
be installed on an elevated structure, if there is older
equipment lawfully installed on that structure. The
proposal would require a wall (at least 50% solid, such as
lattice) to separate the equipment from the rear lot line.
[Insert others]
Additional details on the proposal(s) as well as the Zoning
Ordinance are all available for public inspection in the
Municipal Building, 3800 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas
77005. The proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance would apply
generally within the City, and any person interested in such
matters should attend the hearings. The proposal(s) may be
adopted only after notice and hearing and would control over
anything inconsistent in the current Zoning Ordinance.
Date: /s/ Kay Holloway, City Secretary