This big box retail development chapter regulates the size and location of newly constructed retail buildings to ensure the supply and demand are met within the city without creating unnecessary negative impacts to the city's economic development or citizens' quality of life.

(Res. of 8-4-20(2))

Big box retail buildings are any commercial buildings with a total square footage of more than twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet. These buildings may be single tenant or multiple tenant buildings and can be located in any zone of the city if deemed a permissible use.

Total square footage shall be defined as all enclosed areas of the structure including storage space as well as all outdoor storage and sales area.

(Res. of 8-4-20(2))

All retail buildings over twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet shall be required to file for a conditional use permit to determine the compliance of the project. This permit approval will be based in part on the proximity to vacant big boxes of a similar size, the location of the site to similar uses and a determination of the compliance with the character of the surrounding neighborhood. In addition to these factors, approval shall be based on a city-wide need for additional large commercial space.

(Res. of 8-4-20(2))

There are three (3) separate categories for total square footage of commercial buildings. This square footage shall include all interior space as well as outdoor storage and/or sales areas.

Category A shall be defined as all commercial structures with less than twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet total. This category will not require a conditional use permit and may apply formally for the proper site plan and design procedures as stated in the zoning ordinance.

Category B shall be defined as all commercial structures with a total square footage between twenty-five thousand (25,000) square feet and eighty thousand (80,000) square feet. This category will require a conditional use permit approval before any further formal processes can be completed.

Category C shall be defined as all commercial structures with a total square footage above eighty thousand (80,000) square feet. This category will require a conditional use permit approval before any further formal processes can be completed.

(Res. of 8-4-20(2))

Parking for all new commercial box developments as defined in this chapter shall be limited to a maximum number of stalls. Parking for these projects shall be calculated with a 1:300 square foot ratio. These stalls must be located on all four sides of the building to deter a large-scale single parking lot and to create a more aesthetic design incorporating more green space.

(Res. of 8-4-20(2))