Afton council adopts changes to land-use code (Title 17) to clarify setbacks and sign rules

The Afton Town Council adopted Ordinance 634 on Jan. 12, 2016, making multiple additions and edits to Title 17 of the town code governing zoning and land use. Mayor Joel Neuenschwander presented the ordinance for third and final reading. Councilman Jerry Hansen moved to pass the ordinance and Councilman Bill Hoopes seconded; the motion carried with Councilman Rick Merritt recorded as voting nay.

Ordinance 634 amends several sections of Title 17: it clarifies temporary-sign standards and permit durations (temporary signs permitted but limited to six months), sets setback requirements across districts (20-foot front-yard minimum in most districts, side yards of 8 feet and 12 feet where applicable, rear yards of 8 feet, and smaller accessory-structure setbacks in some cases), adds storm-water management design parameters (retention sized for a 25-year, 24-hour storm), and specifies plot-plan requirements for residential and minor-construction permits. The ordinance also affirms that sidewalks and other public-works features will be reviewed case-by-case for new developments.

During discussion, Town Attorney Spencer Allred summarized relevant state statutes and councilmembers emphasized that requests for water or sewer service to properties outside town limits will be handled individually and referred to the Utility Board for review. The changes to Title 17 were adopted as presented; the ordinance record lists first reading on Nov. 10, 2015, second reading on Dec. 8, 2015, and final adoption on Jan. 12, 2016. The council directed the clerk to publish the ordinance.