02-18-2025 Planning Commission Packet (2)

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FILE # LA24-000066 18 February 2025 Page 4 of 8 The character of the area leans on its natural resources; proximity to Long Lake, abundant trees and wildlife. To the south and east of the property lies undeveloped land owned by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. Keeping farm animals is consistent with the rural character of this area, despite the substandard size of the property itself. 8. Compatible with the character of buildings and site improvements in the surrounding area, unless a change of character is called for in the community management plan: Including the few nearby single-family residences, the surrounding area is rural in nature. The keeping of farm animals in a small coop in a screened area of the property would be compatible with the site improvements in the area. 9. Not expected to substantially impair the use and enjoyment of the property in the area or have a materially adverse impact on the property values in the area when compared to the impairment or impact of generally permitted uses: The potential impacts of keeping farm animals on a property of less than two (2) acres may impair the use and enjoyment of other properties in the area when compared to the permitted use of a single- family residence. The spirit of this standard is to ensure there is adequate buffering between farm animals and adjacent properties or residences, so potential negative effects such as noise or odor can be reduced. 10. Provided with screening and buffering adequate to mitigate undesirable views and activities likely to disturb surrounding uses: The conditional use standards for farm animals requires 150 feet of separation between animal enclosures and neighboring residences, and 75 feet of separation from property lines. The applicants have proposed a coop location as close as 35 feet from a property line, and have requested relief from the 75-foot setback. They articulate the proposed coop location is better screened from other properties and East Long Lake Road than if the setback is met; something staff agrees with. The trees and woods of the surrounding area are located near the edge of the property, whereas the interior of the property where the setback could be met is more visible than the proposed location. Additionally, both adjacent properties that the coop would encroach upon are vacant with significant tree coverage. 11. Not create a nuisance which generates smoke, noise, glare, vibration, odors, fumes, dust, electrical interference, general unsightliness, or other means: The proposal is not anticipated to create a nuisance as applied; however, if a nuisance should occur, the size of the property could affect adjacent properties. 12. Not cause excessive non-residential traffic on residential streets, parking needs that cause a demonstrable inconvenience to adjoining properties, traffic congestion, or unsafe access: The proposed land use is not anticipated to impact traffic or parking in the area. 13. Designed to take into account the natural, scenic, and historic features of the area and to minimize environmental impact: The proposed coop is to be located in an area that is screened by the natural environment, however, it does not meet the setbacks stipulated within the conditional use standards. 203