The purpose of this section is to provide for the erection of model homes and temporary real estate offices in new subdivisions without adversely affecting the character of surrounding residential neighborhoods or creating a general nuisance. As model homes represent a unique temporary commercial use, special consideration must be given to the peculiar problems associated with them and special standards must be applied to ensure reasonable compatibility with their surrounding environment.

The erection of a model home(s) and temporary real estate office(s) shall require an administrative permit, as may be issued by the Zoning Administrator.

Subd. 1.

Model homes and temporary real estate offices shall be allowed as provided for in the applicable zoning district in which they are located. Any such model home or temporary real estate office shall comply with the Minnesota State Building Code.

(Amended by Ord. No. 2002-32, 11/26/02)

Subd. 2.

Temporary parking facilities shall be provided on the site and shall include at least four off-street parking spaces per model home unit or temporary real estate office. Such temporary parking facilities shall provide handicap accessible parking and accessible routes as required by the Minnesota State Building Code. The overall design, drainage, and surfacing of the temporary parking facility shall be subject to the approval of the Zoning Administrator.

(Amended by Ord. No. 2002-32, 11/26/02; Ord. No. 2012-05, 02/28/12)

Subd. 3.

Access from a temporary parking facility onto a local, residential street shall be minimized. Where this requirement is physically impractical, access shall be directed away from residential neighborhoods to the greatest extent possible.

Subd. 4.

No model home or temporary real estate office shall incorporate outside lighting which creates a nuisance due to glare or intensity, as provided for in Section 21105.06 of this Chapter.

Subd. 5.

All model home and temporary real estate office signage shall comply with the sign regulations as contained in Section 21155 of this Chapter.

Subd. 6.

The administrative permit shall terminate three years from its date of issuance or until 85 percent of the development is completed, whichever occurs first.

Subd. 7.

No residential occupancy permit shall be issued for a model home until such time as the structure has been fully converted to a residence. Such conversion shall include but not be limited to parking lot restoration and the removal of signage and lighting.

Subd. 8.

The restoration of all temporary parking areas with appropriate landscaping shall be completed by the end of the next growing season.

Subd. 9.

All criteria for interim use consideration but not procedural requirements, as contained in Section 21020 of this Chapter, shall be considered and satisfactorily met.