North St. Paul City Council Advances Key Development Projects, Amends ADU Rules
City leaders approve significant changes to accessory dwelling unit regulations, award design contract for McNite Athletic Complex, and deny an oversized garage variance.
The North St. Paul City Council addressed a busy agenda during its recent meeting, approving significant changes to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations, advancing the preliminary design for the McNite Athletic Complex, and denying a variance request for an oversized garage. These decisions reflect the city’s ongoing efforts to manage urban development, invest in community amenities, and maintain vital infrastructure.
New Guidelines for Accessory Dwelling Units
In a unanimous vote, the council adopted Ordinance 2026-XX, which amends portions of the city code pertaining to ADUs. This updated ordinance moves away from a fixed maximum size of 900 square feet for ADUs, instead allowing them to be up to 40% of the principal dwelling’s floor area. This change aims to provide greater flexibility for residents interested in building or expanding ADUs.
We had a maximum size of 900 square feet. We've changed that to 40% of the floor area of the principal dwelling. And in the applicant's case, that would allow them to have 1,600 or 80 square feet of ADU, which would be enough to accomplish their initial request.
Oversized Garage Variance Denied
Conversely, the council denied a variance application for an oversized accessory garage at 2130 Corn Place. The applicant had sought approval for a 948-square-foot garage, exceeding existing city limits. City staff had recommended denial, a position supported by the council, citing that the request did not meet the necessary criteria for a variance.
We did not find any special conditions or any special reasons in the code preventing them from meeting that 948 square feet. They want larger... So it's in staff's opinion because of that this request does not meet all the criteria in order for the city to grant a variance.
Other Topics from This Document
Adoption of the Agenda
Consent Agenda Items
Public Comment
Variance Request for 2130 Corn Place
Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment for Accessory Dwelling Units
McNite Athletic Complex Preliminary Design Development
2026 Crack Sealing Project Bids and Contract Award
Manager and Department Reports
Directional Drilling Crew Installation
Pole Installations/Change Outs
Fiber Company Transfer
Time Capsule Event
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