Commissioner flags gap in UDC accessory-use table for automotive sales

During discussion of a used-car conditional-use request, a commissioner noted that the parish’s newly adopted Unified Development Code (UDC) does not explicitly list automotive sales in the accessory-use table for residential categories, raising a policy gap that could produce repeated ad hoc limits at hearings.

"In the new accessory use table in the new UDC, automotive sales are not listed at all," the commissioner said, urging that the next round of UDC corrections include a stipulation or clearer language. Planning staff acknowledged the concern and said correcting accessory-use language will be added to the review list. Commissioners agreed the issue should be addressed so similar applications have consistent standards going forward.

Planning staff also reminded the commission that because the applicant’s filing predated the UDC adoption, some new notification/sign rules did not apply to this case. The commission asked staff to return recommended clarifications for review in a future meeting.