Soddy-Daisy considers zoning definitions for smoke and vape shops and a Soddy Lake scenic corridor; accessory building rules tabled

City Manager Burt Johnson told the Board of Commissioners on Sept. 5 that an amendment to the zoning ordinance would add definitions for smoke shops, vape shops, CBD establishments, the Soddy Lake Scenic Corridor and alternative financial establishments.

Johnson said the proposed Soddy Lake Scenic Corridor would run along Dayton Pike from Tsati Terrace north to Depot Street and is intended to promote coordinated, attractive development — including sidewalks and landscaping — while excluding certain business types in the corridor. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the definitions amendment, and the commission placed the item on first reading.

Separately, commissioners discussed whether shipping containers should be permitted as accessory (storage) buildings. The Planning Commission had tabled action on accessory buildings; City Attorney Elliott and staff recommended deferring the matter and the commission voted to defer consideration until the Oct. 17 meeting. A companion amendment to establish the Soddy Lake Scenic Corridor in Article VIII (access control, parking and site-plan requirements) was also tabled by the Planning Commission and deferred to the Sept. 19 commission meeting so staff can clarify sidewalk requirements.

City Manager Johnson and staff said current ordinance language does not allow shipping containers as accessory structures. The commission discussed drafting standards that could permit containers in limited commercial locations if owners meet beautification requirements.