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Glen Carbon City Zoning Code

CHAPTER 14

SUPPLEMENTARY REGULATIONS

10-14-1: SCOPE:

This chapter provides supplementary regulations to be used in administering and interpreting the intent of this title. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-2: HEIGHT EXCEPTIONS AND LIMITATIONS:

   A.   Exemptions From Height Limits: The building height limitations stipulated in the applicable districts shall not apply to the following; provided, that no such structure exceeds the height limits for airport approach areas as established in this title:
   Air conditioning units.
   Antennas.
   Chimneys.
   Church steeples.
   Communication towers.
   Elevator towers.
   Flagpoles.
   Parapet walls.
   Silos.
   Utility transmission towers.
   Windmills.
   Similar structures.
   B.   Encroachment Into Airport Approach Plan: No structure shall be erected to a height that would encroach into or through any established public or private airport approach plan prepared in accordance with the criteria established by the Federal Aviation Administration. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-3: YARD ENCROACHMENTS:

Every part of a required yard shall be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky, except as herein provided or as otherwise permitted in this title:
   A.   Structural Overhangs: Cornices, awnings, eaves, gutters or other similar structural overhangs at least seven feet (7') above grade may extend up to four feet (4') into any required yard; provided, that no such overhang shall extend to within four feet (4') of any property line.
   B.   Sills, Belt Courses, Other Ornamental Features: Sills, belt courses and similar ornamental features may extend six inches (6") into any required yard.
   C.   Air Conditioners And Similar Mechanical Equipment: Air conditioning equipment, sprinkler system controls and similar mechanical equipment (including utility's pad mounted equipment) may project into any required yard; provided, that the equipment is mounted in a manner contiguous to the building. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   D.   Fire Escapes, Outside Stairways, Balconies, Chimneys: Open or enclosed fire escapes, outside stairways, balconies, and chimneys and flues may project up to ten feet (10') into the rear yard, provided such projections shall not unduly obstruct light and ventilation. (Ord. 2013-30, 10-22-2013)
   E.   Swimming Pools And Related Structures: See section 10-14-14 of this chapter. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. Ord. 2008-37, 11-25-2008)
   F.   Trellises, Play Equipment, Lights, Outdoor Furniture: Trellises and trelliswork, play equipment, wires, lights, outdoor furniture, mailboxes, ornamental entry columns and gates, and outdoor equipment are allowed within required yards. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   G.   Unenclosed Porches, Steps And Paved Terraces: An unroofed porch, steps or paved terrace area may project into the rear yard for a distance not to exceed ten feet (10'). (Ord. 2013-30, 10-22-2013)
   H.   Gasoline Pumps And Islands: Gasoline pumps and pump islands associated with either a service station or as an accessory facility may be located within a front yard, provided they are located no closer than fifteen feet (15') to any public right of way.
   I.   Fences And Walls: Fences and walls are allowed within required yards, subject to the provisions of section 10-14-8 of this chapter.
   J.   Accessory Buildings: Accessory buildings or sheds may be located within a required side or rear yard, provided a minimum of five feet (5') is maintained from the side or rear property line and the structure is clear of any easements.
   K.   Parking Areas And Driveways: Off street parking areas may encroach into the required front yard setbacks; provided, that the encroachment does not extend into a required landscape buffer along the street frontage. Parking areas and driveways may encroach into required side yards of multi- family residential and nonresidential districts. On single- family zoned lots, driveways must be located a minimum of five feet (5') from the nearest side lot line at the point of intersection with the right of way.
   L.   Sidewalks: Sidewalks may be located within any required yard.
   M.   Satellite Dish Antennas: Satellite dish antennas may encroach into any required yard. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-4: HOME OCCUPATIONS:

   A.   Applicability Of Provisions: In residential zoning districts, home occupations shall be limited to those uses listed as permitted home occupations or which receive approval as a conditional home occupation. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   B.   Permitted Home Occupations: Home occupations are permitted in any dwelling unit subject to the following provisions. Authorized home occupations subject to the requirements of this chapter and the respective zoning district regulations shall include the following:
Childcare for not more than three (3) children not related to the occupant of the home. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996, amd. Ord. 2008-37, 11-25-2008)
   C.   Home Occupation Standards: Any proposed home occupation must meet the following criteria:
      1.   The home occupation shall be conducted within the dwelling which is the bona fide residence of the principal practitioner or in any building accessory thereto which is normally associated with a residential use.
      2.   No stock in trade shall be displayed or sold on the premises.
      3.   No alterations to the exterior appearance of the principal residential building or premises shall be made which changes the character thereof as a residence.
      4.   No outside display of goods or outside storage of equipment or materials used in the home occupation shall be permitted.
      5.   No persons other than a member of the immediate household occupying such dwelling shall be employed on the premises.
      6.   The use of the dwelling unit for the home occupation shall be clearly incidental and subordinate to its use for residential purposes by its occupants, and shall under no circumstances change the residential character thereof.
      7.   No traffic shall be generated by such home occupation in greater volumes than would normally be expected in a residential neighborhood, and any need for parking generated by the conduct of such home occupation shall be met off the street.
      8.   No equipment or process shall be used in such home occupation which creates noise, vibration, glare, fumes, odors, or electrical interference detectable to the normal senses off the premises. In the case of electrical interference, no equipment or process shall be used which creates visual or audible interference in any radio or television receivers off the premises.
      9.   No signs accessory to such home occupation shall be displayed except as permitted or authorized by applicable village sign regulations.
      10.   A home occupation shall be subject to all applicable village occupational licenses and permits. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-5: PARKING COMMERCIAL VEHICLES IN RESIDENTIAL AREAS:

No commercial vehicle which is used for hauling explosives, gasoline, liquefied petroleum products, or any other "hazardous material" (as defined in chapter 2 of this title) shall be permitted to be parked in a residential area except for short periods of time (less than one (1) hour). No utility trailer of any size or type should be parked and/or stored on Village right-of-way. No commercial vehicles shall be parked on any residentially used lot, in the street abutting such lot, or on residentially zoned land, except:
   A.   Commercial vehicles not exceeding three-fourths (3/4) ton rated capacity used by the resident of the premises, limited to one per premises and parked off street in a garage, carport or driveway.
   B.   Commercial vehicles temporarily parked on a lot for the purpose of providing construction, transportation, or other services specifically for the location where such vehicles are parked. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. Ord. 2023-02, 1-10-2023)

10-14-6: PARKING OR STORAGE OF VEHICLES:

   A.   Junk Vehicles 1 : No junk vehicle shall be parked, and no motor vehicle frame, vehicle body, or vehicle body part shall be stored on residentially zoned property except when parked or stored in a completely enclosed garage or building.
   B.   Number Of Vehicles Restricted: A maximum of three (3) vehicles may be parked in an unenclosed area on a single- family zoned lot. Except, however, that if there are more than three (3) licensed drivers permanently residing on the premises, there may be one vehicle for each licensed driver. This section does not preclude the parking of automobiles by persons visiting a single-family home. No automobile may be parked or stored in any required yard area. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-7: ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES:

   A.   Authorization: Accessory uses are permitted in all zoning districts as provided herein.
   B.   Use Limitations:
      1.   No accessory structure shall be built prior to the construction of the principal use.
      2.   No accessory structure shall be occupied or utilized unless the principal structure to which it is accessory is occupied or utilized.
      3.   All accessory uses and structures shall comply with the use limitations applicable in the zoning district in which located.
      4.   No accessory structure shall be used as a dwelling.
      5.   All accessory uses and structures shall comply with the following height regulations, except as provided in section 10-14-2 of this chapter:
         a.   No accessory building shall exceed fifteen feet (15') in height in any residential (R) district.
         b.   No accessory building shall exceed twenty five feet (25') in height in any commercial (C) or industrial (I) district.
   C.   Location:
      1.   If an accessory type building shares a structural wall with a principal building, it shall be deemed to be a part of the principal building and shall comply in all respects with the requirements of this title applicable to a principal building. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
      2.   If an accessory building is detached from the principal building, it shall be located at least ten feet (10') from the principal building and a minimum of five feet (5') is maintained from the side or rear property line and the structure is clear of any easements. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. Ord. 2008-37, 11-25-2008)
      3.   No accessory structure or use shall be located in any required corner visibility triangle as established in section 10-14-10 of this chapter.
      4.   No accessory structure, except those exempted by section 10-14-3 of this chapter, shall be located within a front yard. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-8: FENCES AND WALLS:

   A.   Location:
      1.   Rights Of Way: Fences and walls shall not be constructed on or over any easement dedicated for public road right of way.
      2.   The administrative review, evaluation, and approval of the village director of community development, and
         a.   The administrative review, evaluation, and approval of the village building and zoning administrator, and
         b.   The recording of a hold harmless agreement in a form provided by the village of Glen Carbon. (Ord. 2001-19, 6-26-2001)
   B.   Height Restrictions:
      1.   Front Yard: Fences or walls not exceeding five feet (5') in height, may be erected in the front yard of any lot, but must maintain required corner visibility when applicable.
      2.   Side Yard: Fences or walls not exceeding six feet (6') in height may be erected in the side yard of any lot, provided they do not extend beyond the front setback line.
      3.   Rear Yard: Fences or walls not exceeding six feet (6') in height may be erected in the rear yard of any lot.
      4.   Corner Lot Height: Fences not exceeding six feet (6') in height may be erected in street facing sides of corner lots, provided they do not cross the front facing plane of the principal building and maintain required corner visibility.
   C.   Prohibited Materials: No barbed wire, electrical elements, or other dangerous materials shall be maintained as a fence or part of a fence or wall in a residential district. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. 2001 Code; Ord. 2001-19, 6-26-2001; Ord. 2008-37, 11-25-2008; Ord. 2024-23, 8-27-2024; Ord. 2025-19, 5-27-2025)

10-14-9: NONCONFORMITIES:

   A.   Purpose And Intent: It is the purpose and intent of this section to permit the continuation of those lots, structures, uses, characteristics of use or combinations thereof which were lawful before the passage of this title, but which would be prohibited, regulated, or restricted under the terms of this title or future amendments. It is the further purpose and intent of this section to allow nonconforming lots, structures, uses, and characteristics of uses and combinations thereof to continue subject to specific conditions or limitations.
   B.   Continuation Of Nonconformities: Nonconformities may be continued so long as they remain otherwise lawful, subject to the remaining provisions of this section. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   C.   Expansion Or Change Of Nonconformities:
      1.   No nonconformity shall be enlarged or changed to a different nonconformity, except upon a determination by the building and zoning administrator that the change results in a lessening of the degree of nonconformity. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. 2001 Code)
      2.   Additions to nonconforming structures containing conforming uses shall be permitted if the additions comply with setback and other applicable site related regulations.
      3.   Additions to structures on a nonconforming lot which are below the threshold of a major site plan may be permitted; provided, that such addition is in conformance with all applicable laws and ordinances of the village and does not create a nonconforming use or structure or increase the existing site related nonconformity. Any addition exceeding the threshold for minor site plans shall require all site related nonconformities to be terminated and brought in compliance with all applicable ordinances of the village.
   D.   Repair Or Alteration Of Nonconformities: Repairs, maintenance and improvements of nonconformities may be carried out; provided, that such work does not increase the cubic content of the building or the floor or ground area devoted to the nonconforming use or in any way increase or create a site related nonconformity. The preceding requirement does not prevent compliance with applicable laws or requirements relative to the safety and sanitation of a building occupied by a nonconforming use.
   E.   Reconstruction Of Damaged Nonconformities: Any nonconforming structure or use or establishment containing a site related nonconformity which is damaged by fire, flood, explosion, collapse, wind or other catastrophe to such an extent that the cost of repair or reconstruction will exceed fifty percent (50%) of the building's value as shown on the tax assessment roll at the time of the damage shall be deemed to be terminated. No repair or reconstruction may occur except when such repair or reconstruction results in the conversion of the previous nonconformity to a conforming structure and/or use or site. In the event that damage to a nonconformity may be repaired by an investment of less than fifty percent (50%) of the appraised value of the nonconformity as shown on the tax assessment roll at the time of the damage, such repair shall be permitted and the nonconformity may continue.
   F.   Cessation Of Nonconformities: Any nonconforming use of land, structure, or an establishment having a site related nonconformity which ceases operation for a continuous period of ninety (90) days or more, or if a nonconforming structure is removed for a continuous period of ninety (90) days or more, all nonconformities shall be considered terminated and shall not thereafter be reestablished. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-10: REQUIRED CORNER VISIBILITY:

On every corner lot, the triangle formed by the street lines of such lot and a line drawn between points on such street lines which are thirty feet (30') from the intersection thereof shall be clear of any structure or planting of such nature and dimension as to obstruct lateral vision; provided, that this requirement shall generally not apply to the trunk of a tree (but not branches or foliage) or a post, column or similar structure which is no greater than one foot (1') in cross section or diameter. Lateral vision shall be maintained between a height of thirty inches (30") and ten feet (10') above the average elevation of the existing surface of both streets measured along the center lines adjacent to the visibility triangle. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-11: PETS1:

In residential zoning districts, up to three (3) dogs over the age of four (4) months, or up to three (3) rabbits over the age of four (4) months, or up to three (3) cats over the age of four (4) months, or up to three (3) other domestic animals over the age of four (4) months, or a combination of not more than three (3) dogs, rabbits, cats or other domestic animals over the age of four (4) months may be kept as pets by the occupant(s) of a dwelling. These animals may not be used or kept for commercial or retail purposes, or as to cause a public nuisance 2 . (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)

10-14-12: MOBILE HOMES AND PARKS:

   A.   Existing Mobile Homes And Parks: On the effective date of this title, all mobile home parks within the village and all mobile homes located on individual lots outside of a mobile home park are declared nonconforming uses. A mobile home within a lawfully created mobile home park prior to the effective date of this title shall not be considered a nonconforming use. As nonconforming uses, existing mobile home parks cannot be expanded in area or in the number of mobile homes accommodated.
   B.   Location Restrictions: The installation of any new or additional mobile home within the village shall be limited to mobile home parks that were lawfully created prior to the effective date of this title.
   C.   Compliance With State And Federal Regulations: All mobile homes moved into the village after the effective date of this title shall be constructed in compliance with specifications set forth by the national fire protection association under the association's code of specifications for mobile homes and travel trailers and all applicable state and federal regulations. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   D.   Dangerous Mobile Homes Prohibited: No mobile home constructed prior to June 30, 1976, nor any mobile home not constructed in compliance with the federal “National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974", nor any mobile home which is deemed by the director of community development to be a hazard to the public health or safety shall be moved into, erected or installed in the village.
   E.   Installation Criteria:
      1.   Each mobile home space shall have a stand to provide adequate support for the placement and tie down of the mobile home. The stand shall extend the length of the supports of the mobile home, and shall consist of either six inch (6") thick reinforced concrete runners or a four inch (4") thick reinforced concrete slab. Concrete piers may be permitted only after review of and consultation with the director of community development.
      2.   Each mobile home shall be anchored in a manner to meet or exceed the standards prescribed by the federal department of housing and urban development.
      3.   No mobile home shall be immobilized, but anchors capable of withstanding a vertical tension force of four thousand eight hundred (4,800) pounds shall be installed at the corners of each stand or as otherwise necessary for protection against high winds. Every mobile home shall be securely tied down to such anchors.
      4.   The minimum first floor elevation shall be at least eighteen inches (18") above the crown of the nearest street or road.
      5.   The frame, axles, wheels, crawlspace, storage area and utility connection of all mobile homes shall be concealed from view through the use of durable all-weather materials manufactured specifically for the purpose of covering the undercarriage area. Such skirting shall be fastened in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and shall provide for adequate ventilation.
   F.   Minimum Area And Setbacks:
      1.   No part of a mobile home or other structure in any mobile home park shall be situated closer than twenty five feet (25') to any lot line of the park.
      2.   A minimum area of four thousand (4,000) square feet shall be provided and maintained for every mobile home.
      3.   No mobile home shall be erected or placed within twenty feet (20') of another mobile home.
      4.   No mobile home shall be erected or placed within ten feet (10') of any street or lane within a mobile home park.
   G.   Permits And Fees Required:
      1.   License Fee: After the effective date of this title, every mobile home park in the Village shall be subject to an annual License Fee in the amount as shown in the Schedule of Fees found in Section 1-16-1 of the Village Code.
      2.   Permits Required:
         a.   Placement Permit: No mobile home shall be placed within the Village until a permit for such placement has been issued by the Director of Community Development.
         b.   Installation and Occupancy Permits; Inspection Fee: All mobile homes, before being placed or relocated within any mobile home park shall first be issued a Mobile Home Installation Permit by the Director of Community Development (or designate). Said Mobile Home Installation Permit shall be issued only after the mobile homeowner completely fills out an application for a Mobile Home Installation Permit in such form as the Director of Community Development shall from time to time determine. Said application shall be accompanied by an Inspection Fee in the amount as shown on the Schedule of Fees found in Section 1-16-1 of the Village Code. The Director of Community Development (or designate) shall inspect the placement of said mobile home and issue an Occupancy Permit for the mobile home only after a final inspection by the Director of Community Development (or designee) demonstrates that said mobile home has been securely placed and has otherwise fully complied with this Chapter (as from time to time amended).
      3.   Penalties: Any person who shall violate a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof shall be guilty of an ordinance violation punishable by a fine as shown in Section 1-4-1 of the Village Code. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense. (Ord 96-21, 9-10-1996; amd. Ord. 99-05, 1-26-1999; 2001 Code; Ord. 2021-23, 7-27-2021; Ord. 2025-19, 5-27-2025)

10-14-13: TRASH ENCLOSURES1:

   A.   Commercial Trash Enclosures: All refuse generated by any commercial establishment located within any commercial district shall be stored in tightly covered containers. Trash containers or dumpsters shall be located within a building or within an enclosed structure surrounded by six foot (6') high walls. Enclosures are to have masonry walls to be compatible with the principal building masonry. Plain faced cinder block construction is prohibited. Such trash enclosures shall not be located in the front yard of any lot and shall be located next to a parking lot rather than within a parking lot.
   B.   Residential Trash Enclosures: All refuse generated by any establishment or residence located within any residential district shall be stored in tightly covered containers and placed in a screened area. Dumpsters shall be located within a building or within an enclosed structure surrounded by four (4) 6-foot high walls. Enclosures are to be compatible with the principal structure in material and aesthetic appeal. Vinyl siding is not an approved material to be used. Screened areas are not to be located in the front yard of any lot. (Ord. 2014-24, 10-28-2014)

10-14-14: SWIMMING POOLS:

   A.   Location: No swimming pool, whether public or private, shall be located in a front yard or closer than fifteen feet (15') to any side or rear lot line.
   B.   Fences And Gates: Every swimming pool, including aboveground pools that are more than two feet (2') deep, shall be enclosed by a wall or fence at least four feet (4') in height. The passage through such wall or fence shall be equipped with a self-closing gate.
   C.   Installation Requirements: Swimming pool installation shall comply with the village building code. (Ord. 96-21, 9-10-1996)
   D.   Swimming Pools And Related Structures: Swimming pools may be located in a required rear yard, provided they are no closer than fifteen feet (15') to any rear property line, or five feet (5') to any easement, whichever distance is greater. Decks or patios constructed in conjunction with any swimming pool may be located within a required rear yard; provided, that they are not located within an easement or closer than five feet (5') to any property line. (Ord. 2008-37, 11-25-2008)

10-14-15: RECYCLING CONTAINERS AND DROP BOXES:

"Recycling containers and drop boxes" are defined as containers that are used for all types of recyclable materials, such as, plastics, paper, aluminum, clothes, shoes, books, etc.
   A.   Requirements:
      1.   Recycling containers and drop boxes are to be on a separate paved surface not designated as a parking space, sidewalk or walkway.
      2.   Adequate space must be provided for loading and unloading of vehicles.
      3.   Containers or boxes must be screened from public view.
      4.   No more than two (2) containers or combination of containers are allowed.
      5.   No materials or articles are permitted to be stored outside the container. The area around the container shall be kept clean and free from trash and debris.
      6.   No flammable or hazardous materials or perishable items should be placed or kept in any container.
      7.   The container shall be freshly painted and no rust be allowed to show.
      8.   A permit and detailed site plan is required. The fee for such permit is fifty dollars ($50.00) for the first container and twenty five dollars ($25.00) for each additional container.
      9.   The property owner of property where containers are set is responsible and liable for conformance to regulations.
   B.   Existing Containers: All recycling containers that are used for bulk collection of recyclable materials (plastics, paper and aluminum, glass, etc.) that exist prior to the date of approval are grandfathered in. If they are moved they must conform to new regulations.
   C.   Residential Districts: Containers are prohibited in all residential zoning districts with the exception of schools and churches. (Ord. 2012-30, 8-28-2012; amd. Ord. 2020-20, 8-11-2020; Ord. 2021-23, 7-27-2021; Ord. 2024-23, 8-27-2024)

10-14-16: TEMPORARY OUTDOOR STORAGE OF STORAGE PODS/CONSTRUCTION TRAILERS:

This section is intended to address the outdoor storage requirements for all commercial zoning districts.
Storage or display of equipment, inventory stock, goods and materials are not allowed unless enclosed in a secured container with a maximum area of one hundred twenty eight (128) square feet.
Commercial storage pods/construction trailers are allowed for the purpose of construction and/or remodeling for a one-time period not to exceed one hundred twenty (120) days per calendar year and shall be placed in a location furthest from view of passing traffic and shall not cover or obstruct any public or required parking spaces, alleyways or street.
New developments requiring temporary storage pods or construction trailers must request approval through the plan approval process prior to the placement of any storage pod or construction trailer.
Commercial storage pods/construction trailers being used not in conjunction with construction work will be allowed for a one-time thirty (30) day period per calendar year and be placed in a location furthest from view of passing traffic and shall not cover or obstruct any public or required parking spaces, alleyways or street. (Ord. 2018-4, 2-13-2018)

10-14-17: RESIDENTIAL SIDEWALK AND DRIVEWAYS:

Sidewalks, Driveways, and Driveway Entrance must be constructed as depicted in the figure below.
 
(Ord. 2023-18, 5-9-2023)

10-14-18: SHORT-TERM RENTAL:

   Before the use of any residential dwelling as a short- term rental space as defined in Chapter 2 of this Title 10, of this Code, such use must be approved as a special use as defined in said Chapter 2 of this Title 10. Upon application to be granted a special use for a dwelling as a short-term residential rental space, the dwelling unit shall be subject to an inspection by the Village of Glen Carbon. The inspection shall determine whether the dwelling unit meets the standards required for a dwelling unit as defined by Village Code and whether the dwelling unit is in a safe and clean condition for use as a short-term dwelling unit. The application for a special use to establish a short-term residential rental location shall include a fee payable to the Village of Glen Carbon in partial reimbursement of the cost of the inspection. The Board of Trustees hereby determines that the reasonable cost of the inspection and the fee is $100. The Director of Community Development of the Village may thereafter determine that additional inspections are appropriate from time to time due to change of circumstances. In addition, the Director may require a routine inspection of the dwelling unit at least annually. The fee for all such inspections shall be $100 per inspection.
(Ord. 2025-27, 8-26-2025)