On the agenda: Ankenyia Plan and Zoning Commission — data center (Jul 21)

PLAN AND ZONING COMMISSION
Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, July 21, 2026
6:30 PM
City Council Chambers
1250 SW District Drive, Second Floor, Ankeny, Iowa
Ted Rapp, Chair
Randy Weisheit, Vice Chair
Trina Flack
Joseph Herst

Lisa West

Todd Ripper
Phil Tuning

Plan and Zoning Commission regular meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each
month, following the Monday City Council meetings. All Plan and Zoning Commission meetings are open to
the public. Assistive Listening Devices (ALD) are available for persons with impaired hearing.

CALL TO ORDER
A.

ROLL CALL:

B.

AMENDMENTS TO AGENDA:
Approval of the July 21, 2026 Agenda
Consider MOTION to approve and accept the July 21, 2026 agenda with/without amendments.

C.

COMMUNICATIONS:

D.

CITIZEN'S REQUEST:

E.

CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:
1.

Minutes of the July 7, 2026 Plan and Zoning Commission meeting
Consider MOTION to approve and accept the July 7, 2026 minutes of the Plan and Zoning
Commission meeting.

Consider MOTION to approve the recommendations for Consent Agenda Item #1

F.

REMOVED CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS:

G.

PUBLIC HEARINGS:

H.

BUSINESS ITEMS:

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2.

Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update
Consider MOTION to recommend City Council approval of the Zoning and Subdivision
Ordinance and Zoning Map Update.

I.

REPORTS:
Director and Commissioner Reports
1. July 20, 2026 City Council Report
2. Tentative Agenda items for Tuesday, August 4, 2026
3. Commissioner's Reports

J.

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS:

K.

ADJOURNMENT:
Consider MOTION to adjourn the meeting.

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PLAN AND ZONING COMMISSION
Plan and Zoning Commission Agenda
July 21, 2026
6:30 PM
Ted Rapp, Chair
Randy Weisheit, Vice Chair
Trina Flack
Joseph Herst

Lisa West

Todd Ripper
Phil Tuning

ITEM NAME
Approval of the July 21, 2026 Agenda
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
Development Services

COUNCIL GOAL
Ensure Economic Vitality

ACTION REQUESTED
Motion
LEGAL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CITY MANAGER/STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:

PREVIOUS COUNCIL/COMMISSION/BOARD ACTION(S)

FISCAL IMPACT

PUBLIC OUTREACH EFFORTS

ACTION REQUESTED
Consider MOTION to approve and accept the July 21, 2026 agenda with/without amendments.
ATTACHMENTS
None
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PLAN AND ZONING COMMISSION
Plan and Zoning Commission Agenda
July 21, 2026
6:30 PM
Ted Rapp, Chair
Randy Weisheit, Vice Chair
Trina Flack
Joseph Herst

Lisa West

Todd Ripper
Phil Tuning

ITEM NAME
Minutes of the July 7, 2026 Plan and Zoning Commission meeting
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
Development Services

COUNCIL GOAL
Ensure Economic Vitality

ACTION REQUESTED
Motion
LEGAL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CITY MANAGER/STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:

PREVIOUS COUNCIL/COMMISSION/BOARD ACTION(S)

FISCAL IMPACT

PUBLIC OUTREACH EFFORTS

ACTION REQUESTED
Consider MOTION to approve and accept the July 7, 2026 minutes of the Plan and Zoning Commission
meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
Page 5 of 146

1.

P&Z Minutes 2026-07-07

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Meeting Minutes
Plan & Zoning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Ankeny City Council Chambers, Second Floor
1250 SW District Drive, Ankeny, Iowa

CALL TO ORDER
Chair Ted Rapp called the July 7, 2026 meeting of the Plan & Zoning Commission to order at 6:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Members present: Trina Flack, Joseph Herst, Ted Rapp, Todd Ripper, Phil Tuning, Randy Weisheit, and Lisa
West.
Staff present: Brent Hinson, Eric Jensen, Deb Gervais, Jake Heil, Ryan Kirschman, Alexa Middleton, and
Bryan Morrissey.
AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
Motion by T.Flack to approve and accept the July 7, 2026 agenda without amendments. Second by L.West.
All voted aye. Motion carried 7 - 0.
COMMUNICATIONS
Staff received no communications.
CITIZEN’S REQUEST
There were no requests.
CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS
Item #1. Minutes
Motion to approve and accept the June 16, 2026 minutes of the Plan and Zoning Commission meeting.
Item #2. Marlow 35 Final Plat and Site Plan
Consider MOTION to recommend City Council approval of Marlow 35 Final Plat and accept private street
names NE Baker Lane, NE Indy Lane, and NE Kennedy Lane.
Consider MOTION to approve the Marlow 35 site plan, subject to recordation of Marlow 35 Final Plat.
Item #3. 426 S Ankeny Blvd Site Plan
Consider MOTION to recommend City Council approval of 426 S Ankeny Boulevard site plan.
Item #4. 1 Oak Estate Plat 1 – Preliminary Plat (County)
Consider MOTION to recommend City Council approval of 1 Oak Estate Plat 1 Preliminary Plat, subject to
applicable Polk County Subdivision Requirements in lieu of the City of Ankeny Subdivision Regulations.
T.Ripper asked about item #2, the Marlow 35 Final Plat and Site Plan, is there a berm on the Delaware side?
E. Jensen responded for City of Ankeny Staff, explaining that, due to front doors facing NE Delaware as part
of that project, there will not be a berm.
R. Weisheit asked, in regards to Item #3, 426 S Ankeny Blvd Site Plan, for clarification about a request to
protect overhead electric. Aren’t power lines along S Ankeny Blvd being buried, as part of the street project?
E. Jensen explained that it is the case that lines along S Ankeny Blvd will be buried, but the request to
protect overhead electric as part of the 426 S Ankeny Blvd Site Plan is in regards to lines that run parallel to
S Ankeny Blvd, to the west of the property, which will not be buried.
T. Rapp questioned, in regard to item #2, the Marlow 35 Final Plat and Site Plan, about a detention basin in
the NE corner which goes all the way back to Delaware.

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E. Jensen said he was also surprised about the direction this was routed, he assumes there’s an engineering
reason behind it, but he does not know the reason.
Motion by T. Ripper to approve the recommendations for Consent Agenda Items #1 - #4. Second by
P.Tuning. Motion carried 7-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Item #5. Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update
E. Jensen presented about the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update. E. Jensen
described the history of the rewrite project. The Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance had not been updated
since 1968. The process began in 2018, made good progress, but then was derailed by COVID in 2020 as
well as unprecedented building numbers during those early years of the 2020s. City of Ankeny staff has
since revived the project, and the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update has been
prepared and is now undergoing the adoption process.
City of Ankeny staff has been able to test-drive the new ordinance over the past year, modifying where
needed. Jensen described the notable changes to the code for the Commission and the audience. The
zoning districts have been renamed and updated. The draft code has seven residential districts, including an
Agricultural District, where the former code had only 3 and has never included an Agricultural District. The
new districts better align with the districts referenced in the City of Ankeny’s Comprehensive Plan. Included
are new design guidelines, streamlined to be as short and comprehensive as possible. The sign code has
been rewritten, with the aim to move toward content neutrality, as prescribed in the Supreme Court Case of
Reed v. Town of Gilbert,576 U.S. 155 (2015). Minimum requirements for private infrastructure have been
codified. Development review processes have also been updated to reflect the current reality of our city,
which has grown extensively and added whole city departments since the last code update in 1968. For
example, final plats which have received preliminary approval from the Plan and Zoning Commission will not
return to the Commission for additional review, as they have in the past, but will go straight to City Council
for approval. Another major change in the draft code concerns zoning signatures. As long as a proposed
zoning is in line with the City of Ankeny’s Comprehensive Plan, applicants will not be required to acquire
60% approval signatures from surrounding property owners. However, for applicants requesting a rezoning
which would require a land use amendment, signatures would still be required. Guidance for street trees is
codified.
Additionally, the code addresses issues that are often coming before the Zoning Board of Adjustment:
covered decks and taller fences on corner lots. These issues have been addressed in the code update. The
wording of the code has also been modernized.
E. Jensen next presented the proposed Zoning Map that would be adopted with the code update. He
explained how city of Ankeny staff has painstakingly gone through the proposed Zoning Map, doing
everything possible to ensure the new map reflects the zoning that is currently in use. Jensen showed
several clearly residential areas that are currently zoned commercial. He then showed how the areas have
been returned to residential zoning in the proposed Zoning Map, protecting neighborhoods from
inappropriate commercial uses. He explained that the new map extensively cleans up such areas.
E. Jensen gave a disclaimer that the proposed code and map changes will likely need tweaking once it is
adopted. Having test-driven it for about a year, he expects there will still be some issues that arise if the
proposed code and zoning map changes are fully adopted.
E. Jensen next described the public input process, presenting the public responses and resultant changes to
the proposed code. The draft code and zoning map were added to the City of Ankeny website with a request
for public feedback, and they were also sent directly to local stakeholders. City of Ankeny staff received 4
responses and made adjustments as a result of relevant feedback. One modification was also made
concerning Zoning Board of Adjustment appeals in response to recent state legislation requirements.

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E. Jensen stated that City of Ankeny staff recommends that the Plan and Zoning Commission recommend
City Council approval of the proposed Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and new Zoning Map. He
explained that City of Ankeny staff will listen to public comment from this hearing and respond in a report at
the next Plan and Zoning Commission meeting on July 21, 2026.
T. Flack stated that staff had done a good job.
T. Rapp questioned section 192.02.8 items A and B, under Appeals. Rapp interpreted that section to mean
that if the Plan and Zoning Commission disapproves of the plan, and the plan is appealed to the Zoning
Board of Adjustment, that the Plan and Zoning Commission’s vote would be disqualified if Board does not
act on it in 60 days, and the site plan would be approved as appealed. He was concerned about the wording
and consequences of this section.
E. Jensen said staff would look at the section and respond in their staff report at the next meeting.
P. Tuning commented that the city of Ankeny staff had done a good job with this rewrite, that the updated
code was very comprehensive. He mentioned that it was nice to hear about the public input and see that it
was taken into account and written into the proposed code.
T. Rapp asked for public comment.
David Carney, 2613 NE 30th Lane, explained that he had participated in the public comment process and
had been responsible for some of the comments mentioned in E. Jensen’s presentation. He said he
appreciated that requirements for private streets are codified in the proposed code update, but that ADA
Compliance is an issue in his subdivision. He says sidewalks near his home are not graded to code
standards. He is concerned about the street tree requirements, stating that he does not think a 15-foot
setback is enough. He has sent in more than 40 sign complaints where trees are obstructing traffic control
devices.
D. Carney further explained that he’s concerned with allowing developers to hire their own inspectors. He
thinks this will lead to conflict of interest. He also found wording about private ownership of watermains and
sewers to be concerning. He stated that these are public health necessities that should not be transferred to
private responsibility.
D. Carney pointed out a section of the code, 200.31.18, which he believes is being misused.
D. Carney stated that the updated sign ordinance removes mention of open houses, which he believes will
lead to a proliferation of such signs and an inability to enforce the code. D. Carney expressed concern about
the allowed size and number of signs allowed for developers. He also described what he believes is a
loophole allowing political signs to also be advertisements.
Karl Chambers, 617 SW 3rd Street, recommended that city of Ankeny staff explores the City of Des Moines’s
form-based materials code.
Motion by T.Flack to close the public hearing, and receive and file documents. Second by T. Ripper. Motion
carried 7-0.
T. Rapp reminded the public a staff report addressing the issues raised during this hearing would be
presented at the Plan and Zoning Commission Meeting on July 21, 2026.
BUSINESS ITEMS
Item #6. Request to vacate street right-of-way on a portion of SW Ordnance Road and a portion of
alley west of SW Cherry Street.

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D. Gervais presented the staff report. She explained the request is to vacate street right-of-way on a portion
on SW Ordnance Road and a portion of alley west of SW Cherry Street. She described the area in question,
using views from the 1930s and 1950s to demonstrate that the right-of-way in question existed to support
SW 7th Street, a street that no longer existed by the 1950s view, in which SW Ordnance Rd was in its current
alignment.
D. Gervais described the process by which property owners were notified of the intention to vacate. A letter
was sent to the four adjacent property owners on April 27, 2026, explaining that ownership and responsibility
for this portion of land will be transferred to the adjacent property owners. The adjacent property owners will
be responsible for continued maintenance. The vacation will convert non-taxable right-of-way into taxable
property. The proposal has been reviewed by applicable franchise utilities and only Century Link needs to
hold on to a 25-foot by 10-foot easement in the southwest corner of the vacation area. The City of Ankeny
staff would process the vacation ordinance, then accept the Century Link easement prior to the resolution
authorizing the sale of property. City staff have reviewed the vacation request and have determined that the
vacation request is appropriate.
Motion by P. Tuning to recommend City Council approve a street right-of-way vacation on a portion of SW
Ordnance Road, originally dedicated as Seventh Street, Thomas 2 nd Addition, and for a portion of alley west
of SW Cherry Street, originally dedicated as Lot A, Block 5, Thomas 2nd Addition, containing 0.14 acres (+/). Second by R. Weisheit. Motion carried 7-0.
Item #7. Bill Kimberley, LC request to rezone 48.73 acres from R-1, One-Family Residence District to
R-3, Multiple-Family Residence District Restricted to Single-Family Residential.
B. Morrissey presented the staff report. He began by giving a description of the property in question. The
area subject to the proposed rezoning consists of three parcels and totals approximately 48.73 acres (+/-) in
size. The subject area is generally located west of NE Delaware Avenue and north of NE 54 th Street. A
majority of the site is currently zoned R-1, One-Family Residence District; however, a small section of the
property near the northwest corner was rezoned to R-3, Multiple-Family Residence District Restricted to
Single-Family Residential during the Hope Kimberley Rezoning(s) in 2023.
B. Morrissey explained that neighboring properties to the north, south, and west are zoned R-3, MultipleFamily Residence District Restricted to Single-Family Residential, while the properties to the east are zoned
R-2, One-Family and Two-Family Residence District. The Ankeny Plan 2040 Future Land Use Map classifies
the subject area as being suitable for low-density residential development, which is a land use that is
generally dominated by single-family detached dwellings with a typical density of 1 to 5 units per acre. The
Ankeny Plan 2040 lists the R-3 zoning district as being partially compatible with the low-density land use
classification; however, he explained, that does not take into account the single-family restrictions that are
being proposed with this rezoning.
B. Morrissey continued, detailing the public hearing for the proposed rezoning which took place during the
Plan and Zoning Commission meeting on June 16, 2026. During the public hearing there was a presentation
from City Staff, followed by comments by members of the public. Morrissey relayed that multiple citizens
spoke during the public hearing, and that the comments from the neighboring property owners all centered
around the existing line of trees within the rezoning area and the neighbors desire for those trees to remain
in place both during and after construction. Morrissey stated, as he had during the public hearing, that this
item before the Commission is simply a rezoning proposal from the applicant and that plans and construction
documents are not required by staff at this point in the process and anything shared by the developer during
this phase is considered conceptual. With that in mind, although staff recognizes that these trees provide
value from an aesthetic and screening prospective for residents to the east, the trees are not required by
Code. Therefore, he explained, the City does not have jurisdiction when it comes to requiring that the trees
remain in place once construction begins. Ultimately, the property owner will have the final say on whether
the trees remain on their property. Morrissey stated that city of Ankeny staff encourages residents to contact
the developer to share any concerns they have regarding the trees.

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Finally, Morrissey stated that, based on the factors mentioned previously, City of Ankeny staff has
determined that the proposed rezoning of approximately 48.73 acres (+/-) from R-1, One-Family Residence
District to R-3, Multiple-Family Residence District Restricted to Single-Family Residential is appropriate.
Therefore, staff recommends that the Plan and Zoning Commission recommend City Council approval of the
request by Bill Kimberley, LC to rezone approximately 48.73 acres (+/-) from R-1, One-Family Residence
District to R-3, Multiple-Family Residence District Restricted to Single-Family Residential.
Dawnette Brown, 6104 NE Terrace Ridge Dr, owner of a property adjacent to the proposed rezoning, spoke
about her concerns. She explained that she and her husband moved in 60 days ago. She explained there
were promises, on the part of the developer, that the trees would stay and that the area would be quiet.
Additionally, Brown mentioned that these descriptors are featured prominently on the Kimberley Estates
website. Brown asked if rezoning should be reconsidered. She also mentioned confusion about the zoning
that would be applied as part of the proposed zoning code update. Brown explained that she’s concerned
that other property owners purchased their lots and may have missed out on the period when
communications from the city went out about the rezoning process. Brown ended by saying she hopes the
trees will stay and she’s concerned about things changing.
Motion by L. West to recommend City Council approval of the request by Bill Kimberley, LC to rezone
approximately 48.73 acres (+/-) from R-1, One-Family Residence District to R-3, Multiple-Family Residence
District Restricted to Single-Family Residential. Second by T. Rapp. Motion carried 7-0.
Item #8. 3219 SE 36th Circle Raptor Properties – Building Material Standards
B. Morrissey presented the staff report on behalf of City of Ankeny staff. He began by giving an overview of
the project in question, explaining that on April 8, 2025, the Plan and Zoning Commission approved the site
plan and building elevations for the Raptor Properties Site Plan at 3219 SE 36 th Circle. He demonstrated,
using visuals, that the approved site plan includes two buildings on the property, one for office use and the
other to be utilized for warehouse operations. He explained that the building elevations approved at that time
depicted the office building as being constructed primarily of masonry (brick and split face) and metal siding.
Similarly, the approved building elevations showed the warehouse as being comprised of masonry and metal
siding as well.
Morrissey explained that, per Ankeny Municipal Code Section 192.02(3)(B)(6), metal siding is allowed to be
utilized as a secondary material for new construction; however, any fasteners on the metal siding must be
concealed. He continued, stating that in May 2026, during construction on the site, staff was notified that the
fasteners on the warehouse building were not concealed and were visible on the property. Morrissey
provided a photograph of the exposed fasteners. He further explained that, although the approved building
elevations included a keynote indicating that the office building would use concealed fasteners for the metal
siding, the keynote for the warehouse did not specify whether the fasteners would be concealed or exposed.
As the warehouse keynote did not identify exposed fasteners, staff had no basis to determine that the
proposed siding did not comply with the Code. Had the keynote clearly identified exposed fasteners, staff
would have notified the applicant that they were prohibited, and the plans would not have been forwarded to
the Commission for approval.
Morrissey expressed that, although City staff recognizes that requiring corrective action may result in delays,
the Code’s building material standards are clear: metal siding is only permitted with concealed fasteners. To
date, no other exposed fasteners have been installed since the adoption of the building material standards.
Morrissey maintained that approving the exposed fasteners after installation would be inconsistent with the
building material standards of the Code and would establish a precedent for future buildings in a growing
industrial area. Taking that into consideration, he explained that staff is recommending that the Plan and
Zoning Commission deny the request from All-Star Concrete to allow exposed fasteners on the warehouse
building at 3219 SE 36th Circle. If the Commission chooses to allow the exposed fasteners to remain, staff
would ask for additional guidance regarding exposed fasteners in the future.

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Karl Chambers of Imprint Architects, 617 SW 3rd Street, spoke on behalf of All-Star Concrete in favor of the
Commission granting the request to allow the exposed fasteners. Chambers explained that he created and
provided the elevations and plans mentioned in B. Morrissey’s presentation. He explained that it was not
anyone’s intent to circumvent the code and use materials inconsistent with the Building Materials Standards
in the code. Chambers explained that the materials are not exposed fasteners, but semi-concealed
fasteners. Someone in the materials pipeline misunderstood the requirements and ordered the semiconcealed fasteners.
K. Chambers read from the 192.02.3 zoning ordinance “creating focus on development that maintains a
satisfactory function and appearance within the city. It is the intent of these recommendations to maintain or
enhance neighborhood character, preserve values, and promote public health, safety, and general welfare.”
Chambers explained that it is his belief that the construction of this building achieves every one of those
goals. He asserted that aesthetics are subjective, and commented that some materials that conform with the
City of Ankeny’s Code’s Building Materials Standards actually turn out to be substandard materials. He
stated his belief that seeing exposed fasteners as a problem is short-sighted.
K. Chambers continued, explaining that exposed fasteners are purely an aesthetic issue, not one that
endangers the soundness of the building. He provided pictures of the building, explaining that All-Star
Concrete went above and beyond on other materials used in the construction of the building, especially with
use of brick, and made it look better than most warehouses in the area. They used greater percentages of
primary materials than are required by the code. Chambers mentioned that the fasteners in question are
actually semi-concealed fasteners, and that they cannot be seen unless you are extremely close up to the
building.
K. Chambers asked that the City of Ankeny staff look at the city of Des Moines form-based building codes,
where metal siding standards are differentiated by district. Chambers explained he thinks there should be a
difference in building materials standards between primary commercial and more industrial areas of the city.
He does not think anyone cares whether there are exposed fasteners in an industrial park. Chambers further
explained he’s gotten letters of approval from four surrounding property owners. Chambers showed
examples of surrounding warehouses, maintaining that he thinks the property in question looks better than
the rest.
P. Tuning asked what the cost would be to remediate the building materials, were the Commission to rule
against All-Star Concrete’s request.
K. Chambers responded that he is working on a solution that would not require tearing out the semiconcealed fasteners, but would instead cover them, which he estimates would cost tens of thousands of
dollars. Chambers explained that the cost to tear out and replace the metal siding would be in the hundreds
of thousands of dollars.
T. Ripper asked, “how did we get here?”
T. Flack responded that she feels bad about the situation. The cost and the extra work required is awful. She
commented that she also struggles with the fact that the plans were approved, but the work that was carried
out was not up to the standards of the plans. She expressed concern that the decision made in this case
would affect all the development that comes afterward. She expressed concern that allowing an exception
here would have consequences for years afterward.
T. Ripper asked for clarification: were the plans approved with the concealed fasteners?
T. Flack explained it was approved with the right material.
E. Jensen further clarified that while the office building noted concealed fasteners, the keynote on the
warehouse building in question did not note either concealed or exposed fasteners.

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T. Ripper commented that he has trouble with that distinction. He explained that he wants the Commission to
be consistent with the standards.
T. Flack explained that the code states this is what’s approved, and what’s not approved.
T. Ripper pushed back, stating that not calling it out on the warehouse concerns him.
T. Flack questioned how we say yes here without creating an exception that will set the Commission up for
repeated requests for exemptions.
T. Ripper explains he thinks the solution is to make sure the correct materials are called out on the site plans
and elevations. He questions whether a mistake was made by the Commission or by City of Ankeny staff in
approving the site plan and elevations.
T. Rapp questioned whether the metal siding package for the office building and the metal siding package for
the warehouse were provided by the same distributor.
K. Chambers addressed the question, explaining that they were from separate distributors.
T. Rapp asked Chambers if he was aware of the difference between the two sets of panels.
K. Chambers replied that he was aware different materials were being used, but he was not aware that the
warehouse panels were noncompliant until a few weeks ago. He surmised that the building supplier was
trying to supply the correct materials but was unaware that they would not meet the Building Materials
Standards outlined in the City of Ankeny’s code. Chambers mentioned that he really does not think anyone
cares what kind of siding goes in on an industrial building like this.
T. Flack expressed the opinion that people do care, as the Commission has seen it over and over again.
K. Chambers asked if people have sent in complaints specifically about exposed fasteners.
E. Jensen pointed out that this item is before the Commission because the noncompliant materials on this
building were turned in by someone who did care. Staff did not go out and find this issue, it was reported to
the City of Ankeny staff.
P. Tuning stated that he asked for clarification about cost to ensure the full scope of the issue is examined,
and to ensure the Commission has both sides of the equation. As a Commission, he asserted, we have to
balance both sides.
K. Chambers explained that the person who brought this issue to the attention of City of Ankeny staff wrote a
letter in support of All-Star Concrete’s request to allow their currently installed fasteners.
P. Tuning expressed that he appreciates what Chambers is saying.
K. Chambers reiterated that he thinks that the City of Ankeny should look at the building standards that the
City of Des Moines uses.
T. Rapp stated that Trina Flack and Glenn Hunter and others worked extremely hard on putting together the
adopted building materials standards.
T. Flack expressed that she does not want to get into another code rewrite. She explained that the
Commission needs to come to a decision, and that she does recognize the small business and the impact
that this decision will have on All-Star Concrete.
A. Vasqeuz of All-Star Concrete, 3219 SE 36th Circle, explained that he did not intentionally seek to get
around the code requirements in order to use less costly materials. Vasquez explained that his neighbor,

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who brought the fasteners to the attention of City of Ankeny staff, has expressed that he thinks the building
looks great. Vasquez asked the Commission to consider that he had no bad intent and that he went above
and beyond the code requirements with his other materials. He explained that the issue wasn’t brought to his
attention until the project was nearly complete. Had it been brought up earlier, it could’ve been more easily
remedied.
P. Tuning asked E. Jensen what are some things that he would consider, if the Commission does not
support the staff position to deny the request?
E. Jensen responded that if the Commission wanted to allow semi-concealed fasteners in a situation that’s
on an accessory building at the rear of the lot, where additional primary material was used, that kind of thing
could work.
T. Flack mentioned that she liked that verbiage, and that a statement including those considerations gives
the Commission grace to not have to set a standard, but also gives grace to a good-looking building and a
small business we want to support.
T. Ripper agreed, explaining that he went out to look at the building, and thought it was a beautiful structure.
He wished every owner would develop to the quality that he saw there. Ripper continued, stating that he
could not see the fasteners from the street. It wasn’t until turning into the neighbor’s driveway and coming
right up next to the building that he could see them. Ripper maintained that they were still hard to see up
close.
T. Rapp reminded the Commission of staff’s request to give direction going forward, if they choose to
approve All-Star Concrete’s request.
Motion by T. Flack to approve the request from All-Star Concrete to allow the use of exposed fasteners on
the accessory building at 3219 SE 36th Circle. The exposed fasteners are acceptable in this instance for the
following reasons: the site is zoned industrial; the exposed fasteners are only on the accessory building,
which is subordinate to the primary building on the site; the exposed fasteners are semi-concealed fasteners
(fasteners located only in the recesses/shadows of the panels) and are color coated to match the panels;
and, the building provides a greater percentage of primary exterior wall materials than is required by the
Building Material Standards of the Code. Second by P. Tuning. T. Rapp abstained. Motion carried 6-0-1.
REPORTS
Director’s Report
E. Jensen introduced Brent Hinson, Ankeny Assistant City Manager.
B. Hinson introduced himself and thanked the Commission for their service.
E. Jensen reported on the Monday, July 6th City Council Meeting.
E.Jensen presented the tentative agenda items for the Tuesday, July 21st, 2026 Plan and Zoning Commission
meeting.
E. Jensen presented the June 2026 Building Permit Report
Commissioner’s Reports
There were no reports.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Chair T.Rapp adjourned the meeting. Meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.

Submitted by Alexa Middleton, Recording Secretary
Plan & Zoning Commission

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PLAN AND ZONING COMMISSION
Plan and Zoning Commission Agenda
July 21, 2026
6:30 PM
Ted Rapp, Chair
Randy Weisheit, Vice Chair
Trina Flack
Joseph Herst

Lisa West

Todd Ripper
Phil Tuning

ITEM NAME
Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update
ORIGINATING DEPARTMENT
Development Services

COUNCIL GOAL
Ensure Economic Vitality

ACTION REQUESTED
Motion
LEGAL

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
See attached staff report.
CITY MANAGER/STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS:

PREVIOUS COUNCIL/COMMISSION/BOARD ACTION(S)

FISCAL IMPACT

PUBLIC OUTREACH EFFORTS

ACTION REQUESTED
Consider MOTION to recommend City Council approval of the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning
Map Update.
ATTACHMENTS
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1.
2.
3.
4.

Staff Report
Draft Zoning Ordinance
Draft Subdivision Ordinance
Proposed Zoning Map

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Plan and Zoning Commission
Staff Report
Meeting Date: July 21, 2026

Agenda Item:
Report Date:
Prepared by:

Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance and Zoning Map Update
July 8, 2026
Eric C. Jensen, AICP
Director of Development Services

Staff Recommendation
That the Plan and Zoning Commission recommend City Council approval of the proposed Zoning
and Subdivision Ordinances and new Zoning Map.
Report:
Overview
Prior to the COVID pandemic, the City Council initiated a project to rewrite the City’s Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinances. The current Ordinances are nearly 60 years old and need updating and
modernizing. While the project was slowed down during the pandemic, staff has now completed
the final draft of the new Codes and proposed updated Zoning Map – all three are provided with
this report. With this public hearing, the formal adoption process is underway. The tentative
schedule is as follows:
Plan and Zoning Commission Public Hearing – July 7th
Plan and Zoning Commission Action – July 21st
City Council Public Hearing and consideration of 1st Reading – August 17th
City Council consideration of 2nd Reading – September 8th
City Council consideration of 3rd Reading – September 21st
Ordinances become effective – October 1st
This schedule is tentative and may be modified depending on the Commission and Council’s
review.
Below is an overview of some of the key updates included in the City’s draft Zoning and
Subdivision Code. These changes reflect several years of analysis, collaboration, and refinement,
all with the goal of creating a clearer, more modern, and more effective development code for
Ankeny.
The draft introduces a number of significant improvements that strengthen alignment with the
City’s Comprehensive Plan, modernize development standards, and streamline processes. The
most notable changes include:
•

Alignment with The Ankeny Plan 2040 — Zoning Districts now directly correspond to
the Plan’s land-use categories, including the creation of a new Agricultural Zoning District
and expanded residential zoning options for more flexibility.

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•

Modernized lot, building, and design standards — Common sense design standards
have been created for improved clarity and usability.

•

Updated sign code — The sign code has been revised in response to the U.S. Supreme
Court decision Reed v. Town of Gilbert (2015). The resulting sign code is clearer with a
more content neutral and consistent structure.

•

Process improvements — Development processes have been updated to better reflect
real-world workflows and streamlined where possible. For example, surrounding property
owner signature requirements have been eliminated for rezonings consistent with the
Future Land Use Plan Map of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. Another example is that
Final Plats that are in conformance with an approved Preliminary Plat will bypass the Plan
and Zoning Commission review and proceed directly to City Council for approval.

•

Updated permitted use regulations — Outdated categories have been modernized and
distinctions between similar commercial and industrial uses have been clarified.

•

Infrastructure-related updates — Standards for private infrastructure have been
codified and refined reflecting long-standing practice.

These changes represent a major step forward in ensuring that Ankeny’s development regulations
are clear, predictable, and aligned with the community’s long-term vision.
Public Outreach
On May 1, 2026, staff placed the draft Ordinances and draft Zoning Map on the City’s website
along with staff contact information requesting input from the public regarding the Codes.
Additionally, staff sent the draft Codes and Zoning Map to a list of stakeholders in the community
consisting of large landowners, developers and consultants and asked for their feedback on the
drafts as well. To date, there have been more than 270 visits to the webpage and staff has
received comments from four people as summarized below.
-

A property owner reached out to staff but did not have specific questions about the
drafts. Their question was specific to Zoning and their property. They asked if their
property could be rezoned from residential to industrial with this process. Staff explained
that the draft Zoning Map is intended to align each property’s current zoning or land use
with the corresponding Zoning District of the draft Code. It is not intended to circumvent
the legal rezoning process.

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-

One comment was received by a consultant suggesting that staff change the submittal
requirements to eliminate the need for hard copy submittals. This is not something that
would be resolved with this Code update as the Code simply requires that applicants
provide the requisite application materials as outlined by the Development Services
Department. This is left general in nature on purpose so that an Ordinance amendment is
not required whenever the submittal requirements are modified. For the Commission’s
edification and in response to the question staff continually looks for opportunities to
eliminate the need for hard copy submittals and are currently working toward all
electronic submittals. There are still some limitations, mostly due to our current
permit/development tracking system, that prevents the City from eliminating all hard
copy submittals. However, this is an item that City staff continues to address. And it
should be noted that not long ago, 15 hard copy submittals were required for a
preliminary plat application. Today the requirement is only four hard copies, and we are
working to move to a complete electronic submittal. But, again, this is not something to
be addressed in the Zoning or Subdivision Ordinances.

-

The third set of comments provided by a resident included multiple comments regarding
language in the Subdivision Ordinance and Sign Ordinance. As a result of those
comments, staff made the following two minor modifications to the draft Subdivision
Ordinance:

-

o

Section 200.07.6.H. – Changed “Design Specifications” to “Design Standards” to
use consistent terminology throughout the Code.

o

Section 200.07.6.F(4) – Changed this language regarding sidewalks/walkways on
private streets to be more clarifying. Specifically, the language was changed from,
“Sidewalks along the private streets connecting to the front doors of homes” to
“Sidewalks shall be provided on both sides of all private streets and shall be
constructed to the requirements of the Design Standards. All residential units
shall have a walkway connection from the front door of the dwelling to the
adjacent private street sidewalk.”

The fourth comment received was from a consultant asking for clarification on the Sign
Code as it relates to interstate pylon signs and their allowed height. The current Sign
Code limits interstate pylon signs to a maximum of 30 feet in height, regardless of the
sign’s relation to the grade of the adjacent interstate. The proposed Sign Code allows for
interstate pylon signs to be a maximum of 30 feet in height measured from the main
travel lane immediately adjacent to the sign. The question was whether entrance/exit
ramps were considered “main travel lanes”. It was not the intent of the proposed Sign
Code to include entrance/exit ramps as main travel lanes as they often sit at different
grades, either above or below the typical interstate travel lanes. Staff has added clarifying
language to the Sign Code stating that entrance/exit ramps are not considered main
travel lanes of the interstate.

Staff has received no other comments or questions regarding the draft Ordinances or the draft
Zoning Map.

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Additional Change To The Draft Ordinances
One additional change has been made since the draft Ordinances were provided to the public
due to recent legislative action. On June 2, 2026, the Governor signed legislation that modified
the appeal process for Variances granted by cities’ Zoning Boards of Adjustment. Currently, any
decision by the Board can be appealed to the District Court within 30 days of the filing of the
decision by the Board. The new legislation also offers the ability for anyone affected by a Variance
that is granted by the Board to appeal that decision to the City Council within 60 days. This only
applies to Variances that are granted. It does not apply to Variances denied by the Board and it
does not apply to any other decisions by the Board. It also does not preclude someone from
appealing a Variance that is granted to District Court. Staff has amended Section 197.01.5.C. of
the draft Code to reflect this legislative change.
Public Hearing
The Commission held its public hearing on this item on July 7, 2026, and two people provided
comments. Those comments are summarized below.
David Carney, who is the resident identified above that provided a set of comments to staff
during the review period, spoke and reiterated many of the same points outlined in his written
comments. As stated previously, staff has reviewed Mr. Carney’s list of comments and made two
minor adjustments to the draft Codes. Staff does not believe any further modifications are
necessary based on these comments. Regarding the specific items Mr. Carney noted at the public
hearing:
Mr. Carney expressed concern regarding the ability to defer sidewalk installation. Section
200.04.2.D.(2) of the draft Code allows the City Council to defer the installation of sidewalks only
“…if it is determined there is no immediate public need for the sidewalks.” This provision would
mainly pertain to sidewalks that would be installed on a street abutting the perimeter of a
proposed subdivision in which the roadway was still in a rural cross section. In rare instances in
the past, the City Council has granted a deferral of the sidewalk installation in such a situation
until such time as the roadway is either urbanized or a clear need for the sidewalks is
demonstrated and then the sidewalks are required to be installed. All sidewalks interior to the
subdivision are required to be installed upon completion of the building construction on each lot.
Staff does not recommend any further modification to this Code Section beyond what is included
in the original staff proposal.

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Mr. Carney expressed concern regarding the 15-foot distance requirements for street trees.
Section 200.04.2.O.(6) of the draft Code requires proposed street trees to be set back a minimum
of 15’ from street signs, streetlights, traffic signals, fire hydrants, etc. He cited some street trees
that he has filed complaints about in his neighborhood as being too close to traffic control signs.
In those specific instances, the trees in question are ornamental trees, which will no longer be
allowed as street trees. Ornamental trees do not make good street trees as they do not get tall
enough to allow the canopy to occur above the street signs and therefore can block visibility.
Ornamental trees are, therefore, prohibited from use as street trees in the draft Code.
Additionally, Section 200.04.2.O.(2) also requires any street trees to be located a minimum of 50
feet from any street intersection to provide sufficient distance from traffic control devices (stop
signs and traffic signals). Planning staff coordinated with Public Works staff to arrive at these
standards. Staff believes these proposed standards will minimize any future conflicts between
street trees and traffic control devices. Staff does not recommend any further modification to this
Code Section beyond what is included in the original staff proposal.
Mr. Carney suggested that the City should not allow the developer's engineer inspect private
infrastructure. Section 200.07.6.C. of the draft Code requires that the developer's engineer
provides to the City written verification that all private infrastructure has been constructed in
accordance with the approved plans and applicable standards. This process is consistent with the
City's current practice for public infrastructure. While City staff provides oversight of development
projects and the work performed by consulting engineers, the developer's engineer conducts the
day-to-day construction inspections and, upon completion of the project, submits a letter of
assurance verifying that the public infrastructure was constructed in accordance with the
approved plans and City standards. The same inspection and certification process will apply to
private infrastructure. The City is evaluating whether to transition to a model in which City staff
performs all construction inspections. However, implementing such a change would require a
significant increase in staffing and associated budget resources. The City will continue to evaluate
this option as part of the annual budget process. Until such a transition occurs, construction
inspections for both public and private infrastructure will continue to be performed by the
developer's engineer, with City staff providing overall oversight of the inspection process. Staff
does not recommend any further modification to this Code Section beyond what is included in
the original staff proposal.
Mr. Carney also suggested that the City should prohibit private water and sanitary sewer mains,
stating that all such infrastructure should be publicly owned. Both the current Code and the
proposed Code allow private water mains and private sanitary sewer extensions and loops.
However, these are permitted only within commercial and industrial developments. For more than
ten years, the City has required all residential developments to connect to public water and
sanitary sewer mains, and that practice will continue under the proposed Code. Staff does not
recommend any further modification to this Code Section beyond what is included in the original
staff proposal.
Mr. Carney also expressed concern about the proposed Sign Code, specifically the City’s ability to
enforce time limits for temporary signs. Section 195.10.3.B. of the draft Code limits temporary
signs to a maximum duration of 30 days per calendar year. This is generally the same allowance
for temporary signs that is in the current Sign Code. Staff has an established process of
documenting temporary sign duration and that will continue under the new Code. Therefore, staff
has no concerns with this provision of the Code and does not recommend any further
modification to this Code Section beyond what is included in the original staff proposal.

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Lastly, Mr. Carney expressed concern regarding the amount of development signage permitted
under the proposed Code. Section 195.07.1.E. allows up to two Construction/Development Signs
per final plat area, with each sign limited to 64 square feet, for a maximum total sign area of 128
square feet. The currently adopted Sign Code permits one Construction Sign of up to 64 square
feet in both residential and non-residential districts, as well as Development Signs of up to 100
square feet in residential districts and up to 200 square feet in non-residential districts. Therefore,
the existing Sign Code allows slightly more construction and development signage than the
proposed Code. The proposed Code does not increase the amount of permitted signage. Rather,
it simplifies the regulations by combining Construction and Development Signs into a single sign
category with a uniform size allowance, eliminating the separate and often confusing standards
contained in the current Code. Staff does not recommend any further modification to this Code
Section beyond what is included in the original staff proposal.
Karl Chambers, a local architect who was present regarding another matter before the
Commission, suggested that the City look at the City of Des Moines’ Form Based Code with
regard to their design standards. He indicated that even though they are much more complex, he
thought it was a good example of a design standard that allowed flexibility depending on the
context and Zoning District of the properties. Staff has reviewed in detail the design standards of
the City of Des Moines. Staff would note that it is a much more involved set of standards, not
unlike the original design standards submitted by the City’s consultant that covered more than 40
pages and was overly complex. Staff believes that the current drafted design standards allow for
common sense design regulations and also allows the Plan and Zoning Commission adequate
flexibility in administration. This is evidenced by the Commission’s recent decision regarding
building materials for the All-Star Concrete site in which the Zoning and context of the subject
site were taken into consideration. Staff is satisfied with the current set of drafted design
standards and does not recommend any further modification to this Code Section beyond what is
included in the original staff proposal.
Summary
Staff has drafted new Zoning and Subdivision Codes after several years of analysis, collaboration,
and refinement, all with the goal of creating a clearer, more modern, and more effective
development code for Ankeny. Staff has “test-driven” the Ordinances over the past year making
refinements as necessary with the intent of working out any bugs that may existing in the draft
Codes. The draft Codes and Zoning Map were made available for review by the public. The draft
Codes received over 270 views during the review period which encompassed more than a month.
Staff reviewed all comments and made amendments as necessary to the draft Codes. Staff is
confident that the draft Codes and Zoning Map are significant advances over the currently
adopted and outdated Codes. Further, the draft Codes are in alignment with the City’s
Comprehensive Plan – The Ankeny Plan 2040. Therefore, staff is recommending approval of the
proposed Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances and Zoning Map.

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CHAPTER 190
ZONING ORDINANCE
DEFINITIONS
190.01 TITLE. Chapters 190 through 197 of the Ankeny Municipal Code shall be known and may be cited and referred to as the
“Zoning Ordinance” of the City.
190.02 MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS. In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance shall be held
to be minimum requirements. Where this Zoning Ordinance imposes a greater restriction than is imposed or required by other provisions
of law or by other rules or regulations or ordinances, the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance shall control.
190.03 DEFINITIONS. For the purposes of the Zoning Ordinance, certain terms and words are defined as follows; the words “used”
and “occupied” include the words “intended, designed or arranged to be used or occupied.”
1. “Accessory Dwelling Unit” means an additional residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as the single-family residence
that is either attached to or detached from the single-family residence.
2. “Accessory Structure” means a structure on the same lot with, detached from, and of a nature customarily incidental and
subordinate to the principal structure, but not including incomplete or inoperable motor vehicles, recreational vehicles, or trailers.
May also be referred to as “Accessory Building.”
3. “Accessory Structure, Agriculture-Related” means a structure on the same lot with, detached from, and of a nature customarily
incidental and subordinate to the principal structure, designed to house farm implements, hay, grain, poultry, livestock or other
agricultural products. This structure does not contain habitable space or a place of employment where agricultural products are
processed.
4.

“Accessory Use” means a use on the same lot with, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use.

5. “Adult Day Services” means a non-residential facility that provides daytime care, supervision, and social or recreational
activities for elderly adults or adults with disabilities, offering health monitoring, meals, personal care, therapeutic activities, and a
variety of health-related care, social services, and other support services for up to sixteen hours within a twenty-four-hour period to
two or more individuals with functional impairments on a regularly scheduled, contractual basis.
6.

“Agriculture” means the practice of farming, including cultivating the soil, growing crops and raising livestock.

7. “Agriculture Sales” means an establishment engaged in the retail or wholesale sale from the premises of feed, grain, fertilizers,
pesticides and similar goods.
8. “Agriculture Support Service” means uses that support agricultural uses, including farm supply services, farm equipment
dealers, grain storage, and large animal veterinarians.
9. “Alley” means a public way, other than a street, twenty feet or less in width affording secondary means of access to abutting
property.
10. “Alter” or “Alteration” means any replacement, change, addition, or modification in the type of construction or in the
supporting members of a sign or building, such as bearing walls or partitions, columns, beams or girders, beyond ordinary repairs
and maintenance; or occupancy, including relocation.
11. “Amusement Enterprise” means a commercial establishment that provides entertainment or recreational activities for the
public, such as amusement parks, arcades, carnivals, or similar venues, often featuring rides, games, shows, or other attractions.
12. “Animal, Crop, and Farm Equipment Storage” means a structure designed for the indoor storage of animals, harvested crops,
and farm equipment, but not consisting of a feedlot.
13. “Animal Services Facility” means an establishment including, but not limited to, animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, boarding,
daycare, grooming, training, and other services for animals.
14. “Animal Production” means the day-to-day management, housing, raising, boarding, training, or showing of livestock, dairy,
or fowl for commercial purposes, but excluding feedlots and slaughterhouses.
15. “Apartment” means a room or suite of rooms in a multiple-family dwelling intended or designed for use as a residence by a
single family.
16. “Assisted Living Facility” means a residential establishment providing personal assistance and health care services, including
residential care facilities, intermediate care facilities, nursing facilities, or rehabilitation services under Iowa Code Chapter 135C.1;
and, for the purposes of this Ordinance, hospice programs licensed under Iowa Code Chapter 135J.

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17. “Automotive Parts, Supplies, and Accessory Sales” means an establishment used for the purpose of retail and wholesale sales
of equipment and parts used to repair, service, or customize vehicles.
18. “Automotive Sales, Leasing, and Rental” means an establishment engaged primarily in the sale, rental or leasing of vehicles,
trailers, motorcycles, boats, farm equipment and accessories, including all repair work in connection with their own or customers’
vehicles, but not including uses in which the major source of revenue is from body and fender work.
19. “Automotive Service and Repair, Major” means a facility where motor vehicles are inspected, serviced, and repaired, including
mechanical and electrical repairs, maintenance services, installation of parts and accessories, bodywork, or painting.
20. “Automotive Service and Repair, Minor” means a facility where motor vehicles are inspected, serviced, and repaired, including
mechanical and electrical repairs, maintenance services, and installation of parts and accessories, but specifically excluding uses in
which the major source of revenue is from bodywork or painting.
21. “Aviation Facility” means a site used for the takeoff, landing, and maintenance of aircraft, including airplanes and helicopters.
This category includes airports, helipads, and landing fields. An aviation facility may encompass runways, taxiways, hangars,
terminals, control towers, fueling stations, and other associated infrastructure and services.
22. “Bar, Tavern, or Lounge” means a commercial establishment primarily engaged in the sale and service of alcoholic beverages
for on-premises consumption. Such establishments may also offer limited food services, entertainment, and recreational activities.
23. “Bed and Breakfast Home” means an existing single-family structure that (i) is an accessory use to the primary residence; (ii)
was originally constructed for residential purposes; (iii) contains not more than five rooming units for accommodating, for
compensation, each guest or visitor for no more than seven consecutive days during any one-month period; and (iv) is occupied by
a full-time resident owner or resident manager.
24. “Bed and Breakfast Inn” means an existing single-family structure that (i) was originally constructed for residential purposes;
(ii) contains not more than eight rooming units for accommodating, for compensation, persons who are transients; and (iii)
accommodates each guest or visitor for no more than seven consecutive days during any one-month period.
25. “Boardinghouse or Rooming House” means a multiple dwelling containing three but not more than five guest rooms which are
used by three but not more than five guests, where rent is paid in money, goods, labor or otherwise and complies with all the
requirements for multiple dwelling units.
26. “Craft Brewery, Winery, or Distillery” means a facility where alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, or spirits are
manufactured, fermented, distilled, bottled, stored, and/or sold; and may include spaces for public tasting, retail sales, on-site
consumption, and limited distribution, but specifically excluding vineyards or associated crop production.
27. “Building” means any structure designed or intended for the support, enclosure, shelter, or protection of persons, animals or
property but not including signs, towers, or swimming pools.
28. “Building Line” means the line parallel to the front lot line over which no portion of any building foundation may extend and
which is a distance from the front lot line equal to the depth of the front yard required for the district in which such lot is located.
29. “Building Material Sales” means an establishment that sell materials and supplies to contactors, subcontractors, builders, or
owners for the purpose of constructing, renovating, or maintaining structures or sites. Typical materials include, but are not limited
to brick, stone, glass, lumber, asphalt, flooring, insulation, roofing, fencing, paint, and gravel.
30. “Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility” means a space or establishment where building or development
contactors operate, manage, and store materials and equipment related to construction projects. The space or facility serves as a
base for business operations with office space and may or may not include outdoor storage.
31. “Campground or Recreational Vehicle Park” means a facility designed for temporary use by travel trailers, recreation vehicles,
or tents. A campground shall limit the stay of guests to seven days and shall supply toilet and bathing facilities for the guests as
essential characteristics.
32. “Car Wash” means an area of land or structure with machine or hand operated facilities used for the cleaning, washing,
polishing, or waxing of motor vehicles.
33. “Caretaker’s Quarters” means a residence that is accessory to a nonresidential primary use of a site, where there is a need for
security, or twenty-four-hour care or supervision.
34. “Carport” means a roofed structure providing space for the parking of motor vehicles and enclosed on not more than two sides
and is considered as part of the principal building thus subject to all yard requirements.
35. “Catering Establishment” An establishment that prepares and stores food and beverages on-site for transport and service at offsite events, typically without offering on-site dining to the general public.

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36. “Cemetery” means land used or intended to be used for the burial of the dead, including mausoleum, columbarium, and
crematorium when operated in conjunction with and within the boundary of such cemetery.
37. “Child Care Facility” means a licensed child care center or registered child development home, as defined by Iowa Health &
Human Services, but not operated within a dwelling.
38. “Clinic” means an establishment primarily engaged in providing medical outpatient services requiring a stay of less than 24
hours that may include consultation, diagnosis, treatment, minor surgical procedures, and therapeutic services provided by
physicians, dentists, psychologists, or other licensed practitioners.
39. “Club, Lodge, Fraternal, or Veteran Organization” means a building in which members of a community or association may
gather for social, educational, cultural, recreational, fraternal, civic, charitable, or similar purpose, but not including an organization
engaged primarily in a service or activity customarily conducted as a business.
40. “College or University” means a public or private postsecondary educational institution accredited by a nationally recognized
accrediting agency or association, including administrative buildings, classrooms, dormitories, athletic facilities, fraternities,
sororities, and similarly related structures, but excluding commercial trade schools and business colleges.
41. “Commercial Trade, Business, or Vocational School” means an educational institution primarily engaged in offering
specialized instruction and training in a specific trade, business, or vocation designed to prepare students for careers in a particular
field. Such institutions include, but are not limited to, technical institutes, business colleges, and vocational training centers.
42. “Community Garden” means a private or public facility for cultivation of fruit, flowers, vegetables, or ornamental plants by
more than one person or family.
43. “Condominium” means a building containing two or more units which are designed and intended to be separately owned in
fee, as defined under Chapter 499B of the Iowa Code.
44. “Consumer Maintenance and Repair Service” means an establishment that cleans, restores, or repairs consumer products such
as appliance repair services, tailors, dry cleaners, etc., but does not include small engine repair.
45. “Convenience Store” means an establishment whose principal business is the sale of a portion of or all of the following: Edible
foodstuff, beverages, petroleum products for immediate use in automotives, and other consumer goods associated with the sale of
such products.
46. “Correctional Facility” means a facility designated for the incarceration, rehabilitation, and supervision of individuals convicted
of crimes or awaiting trial, including jails, prisons, juvenile detention centers, and other institutions for managing inmates.
47. “Country Club” – See “Golf Course.”
48. “Creative Arts Studio or Instructional Service” means a facility for the instruction, practice, and creation of music, art, or
photography, including, but not limited to, classrooms for individual or group lessons, studio rentals, workshops, exhibitions,
creative sessions, and related activities.
49. “Crop Production” means the growing and harvesting of crops such as grains, vegetables, fruits, trees, flowers, other ornamental
horticulture, and including vineyards.
50. “Cultural Education Facility” means an establishment engaged in the collection, preservation, exhibition, or dissemination of
cultural, artistic, historical, scientific, or educational materials, including, but not limited to, museums, galleries, aquariums, and
libraries which may offer exhibits, educational programs, public lectures, research areas, reading spaces, and auxiliary services such
as gift shops, cafes, and event hosting.
51. “Deck” means an exterior platform area abutting the wall of a building, accessible at or from above grade and attached to the
ground, that is uncovered and unenclosed both above and below the exterior platform area.
52. “Density, Gross” means the calculation from dividing the number of dwelling units by the entire gross area of the
site/lot/development.
53. “Density, Net” means the calculation from dividing the number of dwelling units by the net area of only the buildable lot(s).
54. “Department Director” means the director, or their designee, of the department that administers the building codes, this Zoning
Ordinance, and other codes and ordinances related to the development of the City. The Department Director is also the designated
Zoning Administrator.
55. “Development” means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estates within the City, including but not limited
to the construction of buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavating, or drilling operations.
56. “Distribution” means the process of moving products between wholesalers, retailers, or consumers within the fulfilment
process. Distribution centers may partake in repackaging, quality control, and other similar processing.

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57. “Dock” means any elevated protrusion intended or used for purposes of loading and unloading goods, merchandise, cargo, or
other tangible goods.
58. “Dormitory” means a building used as a group living quarters for a student body or religious order as an accessory use for a
college, university, boarding school, orphanage, convent, monastery or other similar institutional use.
59. “Drug Store” – means an establishment that primarily sells medications, health and wellness products, personal care items, and
sometimes additional goods such as food, beverages, and household products.
60. “Duplex” – See “Dwelling, Two Family.”
61. “Dwelling” means any building or any portion thereof which is designed or used exclusively for residential purposes, but not
including a tent, cabin, trailer, mobile home, or recreational vehicle, apartment house, boardinghouse, or hotel.
62. “Dwelling, Multi-Family” means a residence designed for or occupied by three or more families, with separate housekeeping
and cooking facilities for each.
63. “Dwelling, Single-Family Attached” means a residence designed for or occupied by one family only which is erected on a
separate lot and is joined to another such residence on one side by a vertical wall located on the lot line. The attached dwelling has
yards on the remaining unattached sides. May also be referred to as “Bi-Attached Dwelling.”
64. “Dwelling, Single-Family Detached” means a residence designed for or occupied by one family only entirely surrounded by
yard on the same lot.
65. “Dwelling, Townhouse or Rowhouse” means a single-family dwelling unit constructed in a group of three or more attached
units in which each unit extends from foundation to roof, and with a side yard or public way on not less than two sides.
66. “Dwelling, Two-Family” means a residence designed for or occupied by two families only, on a single lot, and with separate
housekeeping and cooking facilities for each. May also be referred to as “Duplex” or “Single-Family Conversion.”
67. “Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station” means a public or private parking space that is served by battery charging station
equipment for the purpose of transferring electric energy to a battery or other energy storage device in an electric vehicle.
68. “Experimental, Research, Testing, and Development Laboratory” means a facility dedicated to conducting scientific
experiments, research, testing, and development activities in various fields, such as technology, pharmaceuticals, engineering, and
materials science, typically equipped with specialized equipment and staffed by trained personnel.
69. “Family” means an individual or two or more persons related by blood or marriage or a group of not more than five persons
who need not be related by blood or marriage living together in a dwelling unit. Family specifically includes all persons living in
“family homes” or “elderly family homes” as those terms are defined under, respectively, Iowa Code Sections 414.22 and 231A.1.
70. “Financial Institution” means an establishment primarily engaged in providing financial services and products to the public,
including, but not limited to, banks, credit unions, savings and loan associations, mortgage companies, and investment firms.
71. “Flood” means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas resulting from
the overflow of streams or rivers or from the unusual and rapid runoff of surface waters from any source.
72. “Floodplain” means any land area susceptible to being inundated by water as a result of a flood.
73. “Floodway” means the channel of a river or stream and those portions of the floodplains adjoining the channel, which are
reasonably required to carry and discharge floodwaters or flood flows so that confinement of flood flows to the floodway area will
not cumulatively increase the water surface elevation of the base flood by more than one (1) foot.
74. “Floor Area, Gross” means the floor area within the inside perimeter of the exterior walls of the building under consideration,
exclusive of vent shafts and courts, without deduction for corridors, stairways, ramps, closets, the thickness of interior walls,
columns or other features. The floor area of a building, or a portion thereof, not provided with surrounding exterior walls shall be
the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above. The gross floor area shall not include shafts with no
openings or interior courts.
75. “Florist” means an establishment engaged in the business of selling, at wholesale or retail, flowers, shrubs, trees, ornamental
plants, bridal bouquets, funeral floral designs or growing plants.
76. “Fuel Station” means an accessory use, but not a gas station, that is not available to the general public, used for fueling business
and fleet vehicles.
77. “Funeral Home or Mortuary Service” means an establishment engaged in preparation, display and related ritual of the human
deceased prior to burial or cremation.
78. “Garage” means an enclosed accessory structure intended for and used for the parking of motor vehicles of the owners or

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tenants of the premise.
79. “Garden Center” means a retail operation that sells plants and related products for the domestic garden as its primary business.
It is a development from the concept of the retail plant nursery but with a wider range of outdoor products and on-site facilities.
80. “Gas Station” means any building or premises used for the following:
A. The retail sale of liquefied petroleum products for the propulsion of motor vehicles and may include such products as
kerosene, fuel oil, packaged naphtha, lubricants, tires, batteries, antifreeze, motor vehicle accessories, and other items
customarily associated with the sale of such products;
B. The rendering of services and the making of adjustments and replacements to motor vehicles, and the washing, waxing,
and polishing of motor vehicles as incidental to other services rendered; and
C. The making of repairs to motor vehicles except those of a major type which are defined to be spray painting, body, fender,
clutch, transmission, differential, axle, spring and frame repairs, major overhauling of engines requiring the removal of the
engine cylinder head or crankcase pan, repairs to radiators requiring the removal thereof, or complete recapping or retreading
of tires.
81. “Golf Course” means an outdoor area designed for playing the game of golf and improved with tees, greens, fairways, and
hazards. A golf course may include a country club or other clubhouse, a driving range, putting greens, miniature golf, and shelters
as accessory uses.
82. “Government Services” means facilities focused on the provision of a public service that are public in nature and serve a wide
range of needs and patrons, including but not limited to, police stations, fire stations, emergency medical service stations,
community centers, and libraries.
83. “Grade” or “Ground Level” means the reference plane representing the average of finished ground level adjoining the building
at exterior walls. Where the finished ground level slopes away from the exterior walls, the reference plane shall be established by
the lowest points within the area between the building and the lot line or, where the lot line is more than six feet from the building,
between the building and a point six feet from the building.
84. “Greenhouse” means a private building or structure constructed primarily of glass, glasslike, or translucent material which is
devoted to the protection or cultivation of flowers or other tender plants.
85. “Grocery Store” means an establishment involved in the sale primarily of food, food products, beverages, or household products
and may include accessory uses such as banking, coffee shops, and restaurants.
86. “Guest” means any person hiring or occupying a room for living or sleeping purposes.
87. “Guest Room” means any habitable room or rooms used, or intended to be used, by a guest for sleeping purposes. Every one
hundred square feet of superficial floor area in a dorm area is a guest room.
88. “Habitable Room” means any room meeting the requirements of this Zoning Ordinance for sleeping, living, cooking or dining
purposes, excluding such enclosed spaces as closets, pantries, bath or toilet rooms, service rooms, connecting corridors, laundries,
unfinished attics, foyers, storage spaces, cellars, utility rooms or similar spaces.
89. “Handicraft or Artisanal Service” means a use for the production, service, or sale of handmade goods, including, but not limited
to, woodworking, metalsmithing, candle making, cabinet or furniture making, leatherworking, upholstery, stone sculpting and
carving, and glass blowing.
90. “Hard Surfacing” means having a surface of asphalt or Portland cement pavement, or such other surfaces as approved by the
Department Director, so as to provide a durable and dustless surface.
91. “Hardware Store” means a use primarily engaged in selling tools, building materials, household goods, paint, plumbing and
electrical supplies, garden equipment, and related items, which may also offer small engine maintenance and repair services as an
accessory use provided such use is conducted within an enclosed building.
92. “Heavy Industrial, Generally” means a use including, but not limited to, animal processing and by-products (e.g.,
slaughterhouses, stockyards), chemical and material production and storage (e.g., explosives, cement, plaster), fuel and energy
production and storage, scrap and waste management, mining and resource extraction (e.g., sand pits), and metal ore smelting (e.g.,
tin, copper, iron), and other similar uses with significant environmental impacts due to factors such as noise, odors, and emissions.
93. “Height” means the vertical distance of a structure other than a building measured from the average elevation of the finished
grade within six feet of the structure to the highest point of the structure.
94. “Height, Building” means the vertical distance from grade to the average height of the roof measured to the highest roof surface.
95. “Home Occupation” means a service or business which is subordinate to the principal use of the premises as a dwelling and

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does not change the character thereof.
96. “Hospital” means a facility in which patients or injured persons are given medical, surgical and/or psychiatric care on an
inpatient or outpatient basis, or an institution for the care of contagious or incurable diseases.
97. “Hotel, Motel, or Inn” means a multiple dwelling containing six or more guest rooms intended or designed to be used, or which
are used, rented or hired out to be occupied; or which are occupied for sleeping purposes by guests.
98. “In-Home Daycare” means a residential dwelling where childcare services are provided on a regular basis for a limited number
of children, typically in the caregiver's own home. This use also includes “Child Care Home” and “Child Development Home” as
defined by Iowa Health and Human Services.
99. “Junk, Scrap, or Salvage Yard” means a facility where waste, scrap, used, or second-hand materials—including but not limited
to scrap iron, metal, paper, rags, rubber tires, automobiles, tractors, and machinery—are bought, sold, exchanged, stored, baled,
packed, disassembled, crushed, processed, recycled, or otherwise handled for reclamation, disposal, or similar purposes. This use
includes solid waste handling, disposal, or transfer stations; but excludes areas where such uses are conducted entirely within a
completely enclosed building, and the processing of used, discarded, or salvaged materials as part of manufacturing operations.
100. “Landscape Buffer” means an area which acts as a buffer between two different zone districts or two land uses of different
intensity in mixed-use areas that visually separates one use from another or shields or blocks noise, lights or other nuisances and is
required to include trees and shrubs and may include fences and/or berms. May also be referred to as, “Open Space Buffer,” or
“Buffer Yard.”
101. “Light Industrial, Generally” means a use typically involving the fabrication, production, manufacturing, assembly, repair,
processing, storage, or operation of goods, materials, equipment, or technology systems, including, but not limited to: personal care
products (e.g., drugs, cosmetics, toiletries) or items made from previously prepared materials such as cloth, metal, wood, plastic,
and paper; pre-manufactured components including food products, pharmaceuticals, clothing, furniture, hardware, and small vehicle
assembly; construction materials, including concrete and untreated wood products; facilities engaged in metal fabrication, machine
work, and equipment manufacturing or repair, such as foundries, welding, and the production of sheet metal products and ventilation
equipment; data centers and similar technology infrastructure facilities involving the housing, operation, and maintenance of
servers, data storage systems, network equipment, and associated cooling and backup power systems; and other similar uses
producing minimal off-site impacts such as noise, vibration, odors, or pollutants as determined by the Development Services
Director.
102. “Liquor or Tobacco Store” means an establishment that sells alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, spirits (liquor), and
sometimes mixers, tobacco, and other related products for consumption off premise.
103. “Lot” means a parcel of land of at least sufficient size to meet minimum zoning requirements for use, coverage, and area and
provides such yards and other open space as are required. Such lot shall have frontage on a public street or public way and may
consist of the following:
A. A single lot of record;
B. A portion of a lot of record;
C. A combination of complete lots of record and portions of lots of record; and
D. A parcel of land described by metes and bounds or plat of survey.
In no case of division or combination shall any residual lot or parcel be created which does not meet the requirements of this Zoning
Ordinance.
104. “Lot, Corner” means a lot abutting upon two or more streets at their intersection.
105. “Lot Depth” means the mean horizontal distance between the front and rear lot lines.
106. “Lot, Double-Frontage or Through” means a lot having a frontage on two or more nonintersecting streets, as distinguished from
a corner lot.
107. “Lot, Interior” means a lot other than a corner lot.
108. “Lot, Postage Stamp” means a lot typically contained within a larger owner’s association held common lot or outlot and is
intended to define the immediate area surrounding the perimeter of an individual townhouse or rowhouse unit or commercial
building for ownership purposes.
109. “Lot, Reversed-Frontage” means a corner lot, the side street line of which is substantially a continuation of the front lot line of
the first platted lot to its rear.
110. “Lot Line” means the property line bounding a lot.

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111. “Lot of Record” means a lot which is a part of a subdivision recorded in the office of the Polk County Recorder, or a lot or
parcel described by metes and bounds, the description of which has been recorded.
112. “Lot Width” means the width of a lot measured at the building line and at right angles to its depth.
113. “Lumberyard” means an establishment where lumber or wood-related products used in construction are processed, stored, or
sold.
114. “Manufactured Home” means a single-family structure, which is wholly or in substantial part, made, fabricated, formed, or
assembled in manufacturing facilities for installation or assembly and installation on a building site, but which is not constructed
with a permanent hitch or other device allowing it to be moved other than for the purpose of moving to a permanent site, and which
does not have any permanently attached wheels or axles to its body or frame. For the purpose of this Zoning Ordinance,
manufactured homes include factory-built homes, modular homes, and shall be considered the same as any site-built single-family
detached dwelling.
115. “Manufacturing and Assembly, Heavy” means an establishment or use of land that manufactures, assembles, or fabricates
using processes that generally create odor, noise, vibration, illumination or particulates that may impact surrounding properties.
116. “Manufacturing and Assembly, Light” means an establishment or use of land for the assembly or processing of previously
processed components or manufactured parts using processes that do not create significant amounts of noise, vibration, illumination,
or particulates that may impact surrounding properties.
117. “Medical Lab” means a facility performing testing and analysis of blood, blood fluids, pathological specimens, and DNA
sampling and analysis. Generally, these services are not open to the general public on a walk-in basis.
118. “Mining, Mineral Processing, or Extraction of Raw Material” means a use involving on-site extraction of surface or subsurface
mineral products or natural resources.
119. “Mobile Home” means any vehicle without motive power used or so manufactured or constructed as to permit its being used
as a conveyance upon the public streets and highways and so designed, constructed, or reconstructed as will permit the vehicle to
be used as a place for human habitation by one or more persons.
120. “Mobile Home Park” means any site, lot, field or tract of land upon which two (2) or more occupied mobile homes are situated,
either free of charge or for revenue purposes, and includes any building, structure, vehicle or enclosure used or intended for use as
part of the equipment of such mobile home park
121. “Motor Freight or Truck Transportation Terminal” means a facility where freight brought by trucks is loaded, unloaded, sorted,
and temporarily stored for shipping in interstate and intrastate commerce.
122. “Multi-Tenant Commercial Center” means a commercial development designed for two or more tenants, that provides for the
sale of general merchandise, convenience goods or services, and other similar products.
123. “Nonconforming Structure” means a structure or building the size, dimensions or location of which was lawful prior to the
adoption, revision or amendment of a Zoning Ordinance, but which fails by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment, to
conform to the present requirements of the zoning district in which it is constructed.
124. “Nonconforming Use” means a use or activity which was lawful prior to the adoption, revision or amendment of a Zoning
Ordinance, but which fails, by reason of such adoption, revision or amendment, to conform to the present requirements of the zoning
district in which it is conducted.
125. “Nursery, Retail or Wholesale” means a facility where flowers, shrubs, trees, grass, and other plants are raised for sale.
126. “Occupancy” means the purpose for which a building is used or intended to be used. The term shall also include the building
or room housing such use. Change of occupancy is not intended to include change of tenants or proprietors.
127. “Office” means a room or group of rooms used for conducting the affairs of a business, profession, service, industry, or
government.
128. “Off-Street Parking Area” means any area containing parking spaces, driveways or access drives devoted to the parking of
motor vehicles whether free or for compensation.
129. “Open Space Buffer” – see “Landscape Buffer.”
130. “Outdoor Display” means an area for the retail sale of finished products actively available for sale. Typical items include, but
are not limited to, new or used motor vehicles, sheds, swimming pools, lawn mowers, grills, and similar items. This definition does
not include products in shipping boxes, crates, on pallets, or other shipping containers, which shall be considered Outdoor Storage.
131. “Outdoor Service Area” means an accessory use, such as a patio or courtyard, used for serving and consuming food and
beverages as part of a permitted principal use, and specifically including the serving and/or consumption of alcohol.

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132. “Outdoor Storage” means the storing or safekeeping of any goods, material, merchandise, or vehicles in the same place for
more than three days, including, but not limited to, typical items such as heavy equipment, freight or commercial motor vehicles,
trailers, construction materials, and raw, processed or packaged materials including any products on pallets, in shipping containers,
or in crates. This definition does not include areas for the retail sale of finished products actively available for sale, which shall be
considered Outdoor Display.
133. “Park, Playground, or Common Open Space” means an area open to the general public and reserved for recreational,
educational, environmental, or scenic purposes.
134. “Parking Lot or Structure” means an area or structure typically designed to accommodate vehicles for short-term or long-term
parking, and may include designated spaces for cars, motorcycles, bicycles, and other modes of transportation.
135. “Parking Space” means a permanently surfaced area delineated to define its boundaries either within a structure or in the open,
to be exclusive of driveway areas, except in one and two-family dwelling units. The space to be used for the parking of motor
vehicles shall adjoin adequate area for ingress and egress and turning maneuvers which do not encroach on any public rights-ofway, except when such parking space abuts upon a public alley.
136. “Pawnbroker” means an establishment that makes loans or advancements upon pawn, pledge, or deposit of personal property, or
who receives actual possession of personal property as security for loans, with or without a mortgage or bill of sale thereon, who, by
advertisement, sign, or otherwise holds himself or herself out as a pawnbroker. Pawnbrokers are further regulated in Chapter 141 of the
Ankeny Municipal Code.
137. “Passenger Transportation Terminal” means a facility serving as a point of boarding, arrival, departure, or transfer of
passengers using public or private transportation services, such as commercial buses or trains, and may include ticket sales areas,
reception areas, bus parking, refueling areas, and accessory retail sales, but does not include the storage, cleaning, or repair of buses.
138. “Personal Service” means a use that provides personal support and improvement services including, but not limited to, barbers,
hair and nail salons, tanning salons, day spas, piercing and tattoo parlors.
139. “Place of Worship” means a building or structure intended for conducting organized religious services and associated accessory
uses.
140. “Porch” means a covered structure that adjoins the exterior of a dwelling that is accessible at or from above grade and attached
to the ground.
141. “Post Office” means a facility designated or licensed by the federal government to sell U.S. postage stamps and U.S. postal
products and accept mail and packages for delivery.
142. “Premises” means all land and buildings, whether attached or unattached, under single ownership and may be served by
common off-street parking facilities and driveway entrances and exits.
143. “Principal Use” means the predominant or primary use of land or structures.
144. “Property Line” - see “Lot Line”.
145. “Public Way” means a street, alley or other parcel of land which has been deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently
appropriated to the public for public use that is open to the outside air, leads to a street, and that has both a clear width and height
of not less than 10 feet.
146. “Recreation Facility, Indoor” means a commercial establishment primarily engaged in providing indoor entertainment and
recreational activities including, but not limited to, bowling alleys, arcades, pool halls, nightclubs, ballrooms, dancehalls, archery
or firearm ranges, and similar venues. They may also provide additional services and amenities such as food and beverage services,
event hosting, and equipment rental.
147. “Recreation Facility, Outdoor” means a commercial or public establishment primarily intended for organized sports, leisure
activities, or spectator events, including, but not limited to, amphitheaters, commercial stadiums, running tracks, swimming pools,
ball fields, drive-in theaters, and similar facilities. Recreational facilities may include seating areas, spectator amenities, locker
rooms, and may host organized sports leagues, tournaments, or public recreational activities.
148. “Resort” means an establishment or complex offering a variety of recreational, leisure, and hospitality services and amenities
to guests. Resorts typically provide lodging accommodations, dining options, recreational facilities (such as pools, spas, golf
courses, or ski slopes), entertainment, and organized activities.
149. “Restaurant” means an establishment where food and drink are prepared and served within the structure or in a designated and
permitted outdoor area, which may also include carry-out service but may not be a drive-in or drive-thru.
150. “Restaurant, Drive-In” means an establishment where patrons typically park in designated spaces, order from a menu, and have
their orders delivered to their vehicle by restaurant staff, typically for on-premises consumption.

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151. “Restaurant, Drive-Thru” means an establishment where patrons typically drive up to a window or kiosk, order from a menu,
and have their orders delivered to their vehicle by restaurant staff, typically for off-premises consumption.
152. “Retail Sales Establishment” means a standalone use primarily engaged in the sale of goods directly to consumers, including,
but not limited to, bicycle sales, bookstores, toy stores, camera stores, furniture stores, appliance sales and repair shops, jewelry
stores, music stores, radio and television sales outlets, and sporting goods stores. This definition does not include the outdoor storage
or display of such goods.
153. “Right-of-Way” – see “Public Way”
154. “School, Pre, Primary or Secondary” means preschool, elementary, middle, junior, high school, and other educational
institutions having an established current curriculum the same as ordinarily given in public schools, but excluding boarding schools,
nursery schools and childcare centers.
155. “Screening” means the creation of a physical barrier via landscaping, walls, fences, or other structures to minimize impacts
between adjacent properties or land uses.
156. “Seasonal Sales Area” means a designated outdoor space used temporarily for the sale of goods and products related to specific
seasons or holidays, such as Christmas trees, pumpkins, fireworks, or other seasonal merchandise, typically operating for a limited
time period during the year.
157. “Self-Service Storage” means a facility consisting of a building or group of buildings providing individual storage units or
spaces for rent, typically used for storing personal or business property. May also be referred to as, “mini storage,” “miniwarehouse,” or “self-storage.”
158. “Senior, Youth, or Community Center” means a building used as a place of meeting, recreation, or social activity and not
operated for profit.
159. “Sexually Oriented Business” means any use or activity as prescribed under Chapter 140 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
160. “Shed” means a detached accessory structure, with no door or entry wider than six (6) feet, used for indoor shelter or storage
of equipment or goods, but not for licensed motor vehicles.
161. “Sign” means an accessory use depicting a name, identification, description, display, illustration, structure, device which is
affixed to or painted or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, or other allowed outdoor surface or a piece of land, and
which directs attention to an object, product, place, activity, person, institution, organization, or business.
162. “Small Engine Maintenance and Repair” means an establishment engaged in the maintenance and repair of low-power internal
combustion engines or low-power electric engines, such as for lawn mowers and snow blowers.
163. “Solar Panel Array, Large Scale” means a connected set of solar cells, measuring a minimum of 851 square feet, that convert
energy from sunlight directly to electricity.
164. “Solar Panel Array, Small Scale” means a connected set of solar cells, measuring a maximum of 850 square feet and mounted
on a roof or the ground, that convert energy from sunlight directly to electricity.
165. “Stable (Public or Commercial)” means a facility designed and used for the storage of horses and horse-drawn vehicles or
both.
166. “Story” means that portion of a building included between the upper surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or
roof next above. It is measured as the vertical distance from top to top of two successive tiers of beams or finished floor surfaces
and, for the topmost story, from the top of the floor finish to the top of the ceiling joists or, where there is not a ceiling, to the top
of the roof rafters.
167. “Story, First” or “Story Above Grade Plane” means any story having its finished floor surface entirely above grade plane,
except that a basement shall be considered as a story above grade plane where the finished surface of the floor above the basement
is more than six feet above grade or more than 12 feet above the finished ground level at any point.
168. “Street” means a public or private thoroughfare which affords the principal means of access to abutting property.
169. “Street, Private” means any private way which shall be approved by the Council after recommendation by the Plan and Zoning
Commission.
170. “Street, Public” means any thoroughfare or public way which has been dedicated to the public or deeded to and accepted by
the City for street purposes.
171. “Street Line” means the right-of-way line of a street.
172. “Street Sign” means a sign used to direct and manage traffic or to identify named roads, generally those that do not qualify as

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expressways or highways. Street signs are most often posted at intersections and driveways and are usually installed by the City,
County or State in discharge of governmental functions as required by law, ordinance or other governmental regulation.
173. “Structure” means anything built, constructed or erected with a fixed location on the ground, or attached to something having
a fixed location on the ground.
174. “Supermarket” see “Grocery Store”
175. “Swimming Pool” means any structure intended for swimming, recreational bathing, wading, or aesthetic purposes that is
capable of containing water over 24 inches deep. This includes in-ground, above-ground, and on-ground pools, hot tubs, spas, fixedin-place wading pools, and landscape ponds, but excludes manmade lakes or ponds created through the collection of storm water
or drainage runoff.
176. “Television or Radio Studio” means a facility dedicated to the production, recording, broadcasting, and transmission of
television or radio programs, including associated antennas and towers.
177. “Temporary Construction Building” means a building or structure located on an active construction site utilized for work
incidental to on-site construction. Such buildings shall be removed upon completion or abandonment of the construction work.
178. “Temporary Real Estate Office” means the use of a dwelling within a residential development utilized as a job or real estate
office. The dwelling structure may also be utilized as a model home for prospective buyers. This use shall terminate upon completion
of the residential development.
179. “Temporary Seasonal Use” means a short-term, limited-duration activity or operation, conducted on a property that occurs
during specific times of the year. The activity or operation is often tied to holidays, festivals, or seasonal demand. These uses are
not permanent fixtures and are set-up and dismantled within a defined timeframe.
180. “Temporary Structure” means a structure that is designed, built, and intended to be used for a short period of time. These
structures are typically not attached to a permanent foundation and are often used for specific events, construction purposes, or
seasonal activities.
181. “Temporary Use” means a use or activity that is not permanent and is allowed to occur for a set period of time.
182. “Theater or Place of Public Assembly” means a facility used for the presentation of movies, live performances, or other forms
of entertainment to an audience that usually includes seating for spectators, a stage or screen for the performance or projection, and
may also include ancillary spaces such as lobbies, concession areas, and restrooms.
183. “Truck, Tractor, Trailer, or Bus Storage, Parking Yard, Lot or Garage” means a designated area or facility for the storage,
parking, or garaging of commercial vehicles such as trucks, tractors, trailers, and buses. This includes open yards, parking lots, and
enclosed garages where these vehicles are stored when not in use.
184. “Urgent Care” means an establishment that provides unscheduled, ambulatory walk-in care on an outpatient basis outside of a
hospital emergency room.
185. “Use” means the activity occurring on a lot or parcel for which land or a building is arranged, designed, or intended, or for
which land or a building is or may be occupied, including all accessory uses.
186. “Utility, Major” means major infrastructure serving a site, development, or the City at-large. Major Utilities include public or
private infrastructure serving the general community, that may or may not be maintained or regulated by a public or municipal
entity and possibly having on-site personnel. Major utilities include: Electrical substation; electric generation plant; elevated water
storage tank (water tower) solar panel array (large scale); telecommunication tower; water or wastewater treatment plant; and other
similar uses.
187. “Utility, Minor” means minor infrastructure serving a site, development, or the City at-large. Minor Utilities include public or
private infrastructure serving a limited area with no on-site personnel. Minor Utilities include: Collocated telecommunication
antenna; small telecommunication tower; public or municipally-owned utilities; stormwater retention or detention facility;
telephone exchange; and other similar uses.
188. “Wellness, Fitness, or Exercise Facility” means a commercial establishment focused on improving physical and mental wellbeing through various activities and services, including fitness gyms, gymnastics studios, dance studios, martial arts facilities, yoga
studios, and similar venues that may offer exercise classes, personal training, wellness programs, and open exercise areas, along
with auxiliary services such as locker rooms, showers, retail sales of wellness products, and health consultations.
189. “Yard” means an open space on the same lot with a building or structure unoccupied and unobstructed by any portion of a
structure from thirty-six inches above the general ground level of the graded lot upward. In measuring a yard for the purpose of
determining the depth or width, the least distance between the lot line and the main building foundation shall be used.
190. “Yard, Buildable Area” means the area unencumbered by a required yard setback and/or easement.
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191. “Yard, Front” means a yard extending across the full width of the lot and measured between the front lot line and the foundation
front of the main building or any projection thereof other than the projection exceptions listed in Chapter 196.03.2.
192. “Yard, Rear” means a yard extending across the full width of the lot and measured between the rear lot line and the rear of the
building foundation other than the projection exceptions listed in Chapter 196.03.2. On both corner lots and interior lots, the rear
yard shall be considered the opposite end of the lot from the front yard.
193. “Yard, Required” means the area between a lot line and the minimum required setback (front, rear, or side) to the building
foundation.
194. “Yard, Side” means a yard extended from the front to the rear yard and measured between the side lot lines and the main
building foundation or projection exceptions listed in Chapter 196.03.2.
195. “Warehousing (Retail and Wholesale)” means a building used primarily for the storage of goods and materials.
196. “Zoning Administrator” means Department Director or designee and is responsible for the duties assigned to the position in
this Zoning Ordinance.

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CHAPTER 191
ZONING ORDINANCE
GENERAL REGULATIONS
191.01 ANNEXATION. All territory which may be annexed to the City shall be considered as lying in the AG District or the RL-1
District, whichever is most appropriate as determined by the Department Director, until such classification has been changed by
amendment in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 196.04 of this Zoning Ordinance.
191.02 CONFORMANCE REQUIRED. Except as otherwise specified in this Zoning Ordinance, no building or structure shall be
erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally altered, nor shall any building or land be used, which does not comply with
all of the district regulations established by this Zoning Ordinance for the district in which the building or land is located. To be built
upon, a parcel of land shall be platted or meet the requirements and criteria in Chapter 200.01.6 and Chapter 200.01.7 of the Ankeny
Municipal Code in order to be exempted from subdivision by the Council.
191.03 STREET FRONTAGE REQUIRED. Except as permitted in Section 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance, all single-family lots
shall abut for at least forty feet on at least one public street. All other lots shall have access to public streets either by abutting directly
on them or by public way, provided driveway separations onto public streets conform to the City standards.
191.04 RESIDENCE DISTRICTS; FRONT YARD. In any residence district, there shall be a minimum required front yard as stated
in the yard requirements for that particular district; provided, however, where lots comprising thirty percent or more of the frontage
within 200 feet of either side lot line are developed with buildings at a lesser setback, the required front yard shall be the average of
these building setbacks and the minimum required front yard for the undeveloped lots. In computing the average setback, buildings
located on reverse corner lots or entirely on the rear half of lots shall not be counted. Exceptions are listed in Chapter 196.03 of this
Zoning Ordinance.
191.05 CORNER LOTS. The front yard regulations shall apply to each street side of a corner lot and the Zoning Administrator shall
confirm the rear yard on a corner lot. For corner lots platted or of record prior to March 19, 1959, the side yard regulations shall apply
to the longer street side of the lot except in the case of reverse frontage where a corner lot fronts a different street than the lots to the
rear of such corner lot. In this case, there shall be a side yard on the longer street side of the corner lot of not less than fifty percent of
the front yard required on the lots to the rear of the corner lot, and no accessory structure on said corner lot shall project beyond the
setback line of the lots to the rear; provided this regulation shall not be so interpreted as to reduce the buildable width of the corner lot
facing the intersecting street to less than 28 feet or prohibit the erection of an accessory structure.
191.06 THROUGH LOTS. The Zoning Administrator shall designate the front yard of a through lot which shall generally be the yard
adjacent to the local street or the street with the lower classification. For through lots with a platted landscape or open space buffer or
easement across the designated rear yard, accessory structures shall be located outside any easements and visibility triangles (191.15)
and may be located adjacent to the edge of the buffer or easement opposite the street right-of-way. In zone districts where one and twofamily homes are permitted as a use-by-right and the one and two-family lots are platted without a landscape or open space buffer or
easement across the designated rear yard, setbacks for accessory structures shall be outside any visibility triangles (191.15) and
easements and set back a minimum of three (3’) feet from the designated rear property line. For one-family and two-family residential
lots there shall be no vehicular access to through lots from arterial streets. Buildings and structures for other than one- and two-family
residential lots shall conform to Chapter 192.02, Site Plan Requirements.
191.07

ACCESSORY STRUCTURES.

1. Agriculture District. No accessory structure in the Agriculture District shall be erected in any required front or side yard
setback, except as provided herein. Agriculture-related accessory structures exceeding 14 feet in height shall be set back a minimum
of 35 feet from side lot lines and 50 feet from rear lot lines. Other typical residential accessory structures which do not exceed 14
feet in height shall adhere to the provisions of Chapter 191.07.2. The sum of all accessory structures, excluding Accessory Dwelling
Units, on a lot in the Agriculture District shall not occupy more than twenty-percent (20%) of the total square footage of the lot.
2. One-family and two-family residence districts. No accessory structure in one-family and two-family residential zone districts
shall be erected in any front yard or required side yard setback, except as provided herein. All accessory structures, including
garages, shall be set back a minimum of three (3) feet from side and rear lot lines of adjoining lots in any residential zone district;
and accessory structures, except for garages which front an alley, shall be setback a minimum of five (5) feet from alley right-ofway lines. Garages which front an alley in any residential district shall be set back either seven (7) feet or a minimum of 18 feet
from the alley right-of-way. Accessory structures on corner lots shall conform to front yard setback regulations along both streets.
(See Section 191.05.) Accessory structures, excluding Accessory Dwelling Units, on one and two-family residential lots shall not
occupy more than ten-percent (10%) of the total square footage of the lot. No single accessory structure for one-family and twofamily lots shall exceed 1,010 square feet in size, and all conforming one-family and two-family residential lots shall be permitted
up to 720 square feet of detached accessory structure use.

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3. Accessory structures for all uses except agriculture and one- and two-family residential which are allowed by right shall be
located in accordance with Chapter 192.02, Site Plan Requirements, and be as shown on the approved site plan.
4.

Accessory structures shall not exceed the height for accessory structures specified in the zoning district in which located.

5. Except in the AG zoning district, no accessory structure shall be constructed upon a lot until the construction of the main
building has been actually commenced, and no accessory structure shall be used unless the main building on the lot is also being
used.
191.08 SWIMMING POOL REQUIREMENTS.
1. Swimming pools shall be allowed as an accessory use in all zoning districts unless otherwise specifically prohibited in this
Zoning Ordinance.
2. All swimming pools located in Agriculture and Residential Districts shall be located in the side or rear yard and shall be setback
a minimum of four feet (4) from any property line.
3. All outdoor swimming pools shall be enclosed by a barrier to prevent unauthorized access by small children and to provide a
degree of security. In the case of in-ground pools, this shall be accomplished using a fence or wall not less than four feet in height
located not less than four feet from each side of such pool. In the case of aboveground pools, a combination of fence or wall and
the water-enclosing wall of the swimming pool may be used, provided that the pool is reasonably secure and the effective enclosure
height is not less than four feet. For all swimming pools, any opening to the swimming pool shall be equipped with a self-closing
and self-latching device with locking provisions for keeping the gate or door securely closed at all times when not in actual use.
191.09 REDUCTION OF LOT OR YARD PROHIBITED. No yard or lot existing at the time of passage of the Zoning Ordinance
shall be reduced in dimension or area below the minimum required by this Zoning Ordinance. No part of a yard or other open space, or
off-street parking or loading space, provided about any building, structure or use for the purpose of complying with the provisions of
this Zoning Ordinance, shall be included as part of a yard, open space or off-street parking or loading space for another building, structure
or use. Off-street parking and loading areas may occupy part of any required yard, subject to the provisions of Chapter 194.01.
191.10 HEIGHT LIMITATIONS. The building height limitations of this Zoning Ordinance shall be modified as follows:
1. Chimneys, cooling towers, elevator bulkheads, fire towers, monuments, penthouses, stacks, stage towers or scenery lofts, tanks,
water towers, ornamental towers and spires, radio, cellular communication, or television towers, or necessary mechanical
appurtenances may be erected to a height allowed in the zone district in which the structure is located and shall meet all height
requirements stated in the adopted ordinances of the City.
2. Public, semipublic or private service buildings, hospitals, sanatoriums, schools, business colleges and related structures,
churches and temples, and multi-family residential buildings, when permitted in a district, may be erected to a height not
exceeding 125 feet, if the building is set back from each property line at least one foot for each foot of additional building height
above the height limit otherwise provided in the district in which the building is located.
191.11 BUILDING PERMITS PREVIOUSLY ISSUED. Nothing contained in this Zoning Ordinance shall require any change in
the overall layout, plans, construction, size or designated use of any building or part thereof, for which approvals and required building
permits have been granted before the enactment of the Zoning Ordinance, the construction of which in conformance with such plans has
been started prior to the effective date of the Zoning Ordinance, and completion thereof has been carried on in a normal manner and not
discontinued for reasons other than those beyond the builder’s control.
191.12 DIVIDED PROPERTY; ZONING CLASSIFICATION. Where one parcel of property is divided into two or more portions
by reason of different zoning district classifications, each of these portions shall be used independently of the others in its respective
zoning classification and, for the purpose of applying the regulations of this Zoning Ordinance, each portion shall be considered as if in
separate and different ownership.
191.13 FENCES, WALLS, AND PLANTINGS.
1. Permit Required. No person shall erect, alter or relocate any fence, wall, or other vision barrier without first obtaining a building
permit, the fee for which shall be established by resolution of the City Council. Barbed wire and electric fences shall adhere to
Chapter 41.08 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
2. Fences shall be permitted in any yard in Agriculture and Residential Districts. Front and side yards adjacent to a street (corner
lots) in Agriculture and Residential Districts shall be considered front yards and fences in front yards shall not exceed 48 inches in
height; except that a six-foot tall fence may be constructed in a front side yard along the street if it is set back a minimum of 15 feet
from the property line. Said six-foot tall fence shall not extend beyond the front wall line of the front façade of the dwelling (See
Chapter 191.05, Corner Lots). In side and rear yards in Agriculture and Residential Districts, opaque and/or solid fences or walls
shall not exceed six-feet in height, but fences may extend to eight-feet in height if the portion of fence higher than six feet is
constructed with 70% of the surface area open. Fences in the designated rear yard of a though lot shall be located no closer to the
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street right-of-way than the far edge from the street right-of-way of the landscape or open space buffer or easement. No setback is
required from the street-right-of-way for fences six feet and under in height in the designated rear yard of through lots when there
is no landscape or open space buffer or easement. Residential fences taller than six feet in the designated rear yard of a through lot
with no landscape or open space buffer or easement shall have a minimum setback of five feet from the property line. (See Chapter
191.06, Through Lots). All fences shall adhere to the requirements for visibility at intersections as prescribed in Chapter 191.15.
3. Fences shall be permitted in any yard in commercial and industrial zoning districts except that fences or walls shall not in any
case exceed eight feet in height in side and rear yards. Fences in yards adjacent to street right-of-way lines on corner and interior
lots shall be at the height and location shown on the approved site plan. Fences in the designated rear yard of a through lot shall be
located no closer to the street right-of-way than the far edge from the street right-of-way of a landscape or open space buffer or
easement or, when there is no buffer or easement, shall be at the height and location shown on the approved site plan. All fences
shall adhere to the requirements for visibility at intersections as prescribed in Chapter 191.15.
4. Fences of any height shall be permitted in connection with any agricultural use within the AG zoning district, provided that the
requirements of traffic visibility at intersections are observed in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 191.15.
5. Nothing in this Section shall be deemed to apply to public tennis courts, public swimming pools, public baseball fields, and
any other public recreational use facility accessible to the public, except where traffic visibility is impaired.
6. Fences greater than 50% opaque crossing drainage easements shall be installed with the bottom of the fence above grade so as
to not impede storm water drainage paths. Fences less than 50% opaque, and chain-link, are not required to be installed with the
bottom of the fence above grade, though shall be maintained so as to preclude debris from impeding storm water drainage paths.
7. Fences erected within an easement may be removed for utility purposes with all costs for removal and restoration borne by the
property owner.
191.14 MINIMUM OPEN SPACE AND OPEN SPACE LANDSCAPING.
1. The total land area devoted to open space, exclusive of agriculture and one- and two-family lots, shall not be less than twenty
percent (20%) of the gross land area included in the building lot.
2. Such open space shall be maintained as grassed and landscaped areas, pedestrian walks, and ornamental structures, when part
of the landscaping theme. Open space shall not include structures or buildings, off-street parking areas, loading areas and access
drives.
3. Trees and shrubbery shall be provided at a minimum of one landscape unit per 3,000 square feet of required open space with
one landscape unit consisting of two trees and six shrubs or three trees and three shrubs. The use of native grasses in lieu of open
space shrubs may be approved by the Development Services Director or their designee.
4. There shall be a minimum of one landscape unit per building lot, which are required separate from and in addition to screen
plantings.
191.15 VISIBILITY AT INTERSECTIONS.
1.

No fence, wall, shrubbery, earthen berm, sign, billboard, or other obstruction to vision shall be permitted which serves to
obstruct vision between a height of 30 inches and 10 feet on any corner lot within a triangle of 30 feet formed by intersecting
street right-of-way lines; or in the case of interior lots, within a triangle of 20 feet formed by intersecting driveway edge and
street right-of-way lines.

2.

As an alternative to the 30-foot and 20-foot visibility triangles defined above, an unobstructed area between a height of 30
inches and 10 feet at intersections formed by intersecting street right-of-way lines or driveway edge and street right-of-way
lines may comply with the sight distance specifications established by the Iowa State Urban Design Standards Manual
(SUDAS) in Chapter 5, Roadway Design, Urban Geometric Design Criteria, if approved by the City.

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191.16 SCREENING OF OUTDOOR STORAGE AREAS. The outdoor storage of materials, equipment, or supplies, when
permitted in any commercial or industrial district, shall be so located and screened, fenced, or landscaped to comply with a type “C”
screen as described in Chapter 194.02 to prevent visibility of such storage from all street right-of-way and appropriate adjoining property
lines as determined by the Department Director.
191.17 EXCEPTIONS TO SCREENING REQUIREMENTS. Nothing in this Zoning Ordinance shall be deemed to require
screening from the street side of the outdoor display of new and used motor vehicles which are kept for resale to the general public by
a licensed dealer. The screening of landscape plantings, or any new merchandise or products held for resale to the general public may
be required, and such requirements shall be determined by the Department Director. If a property within a commercial zoning district is
put to a residential use subsequent to the establishment of an outdoor storage area adjacent thereto, this Section shall not apply.
191.18 CHURCH-RELATED PRESCHOOL AND CHILD CARE FACILITIES. Nothing in this Zoning Ordinance shall be
deemed to restrict the location or operation of a child care facility, or preschool, as defined in Chapter 190.03 of this Zoning Ordinance,
if such child care facility or preschool is conducted within any church, cathedral, temple, or other similar place of religious worship.

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CHAPTER 192
ZONING ORDINANCE
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
192.01 DISTRICT ESTABLISHMENT AND ZONING MAP.
1. District Establishment. In order to carry out the purpose and intent of this Zoning Ordinance, the area is divided into zoning
district classifications as follows:
AG

Agriculture District

RL-1

One-Family Residence District – 85’

RL-2

One-Family Residence District – 70’

RL-3

One-Family Residence District – 55’

RM-1

One-Family Residence District – 50’

RM-2

One-Family Attached District

RM-3

Mobile Home Park Residence District

RH

Multiple-Family Residence District

UP

Uptown District

NMU

Neighborhood Mixed-Use District

CMU

Community Mixed-Use District

NC

Neighborhood Commercial District

CC

Community Commercial District

BP

Business Park District

LI

Light Industrial District

HI

Heavy Industrial District

CU

Civic/Utility District

PUD

Planned Unit Development District

2. Zoning Map. The boundaries of the districts listed in Subsection 1 are indicated upon the Official Zoning Map of the City,
which map is made a part of this Zoning Ordinance by reference to it in this Section. The Official Zoning Map and all the notations,
references and other matters shown thereon shall be as much a part of this Zoning Ordinance as if the notations, references, and
other matters set forth by said map were all fully described in this Section. The Official Zoning Map shall be on file in the office of
the City Clerk and shall bear the signature of the Mayor, attested by the City Clerk, under the certification that this is the Official
Zoning Map referred to in the Zoning Ordinance.
3. Changes; Ordinance Required. Changes in district boundaries or other matters portrayed in the Official Zoning Map shall be
made by ordinance which shall identify the affected property by legal description, the zoning district in which it then lies, and the
new district to be established for said property. The Clerk shall attach a certified copy of the amending ordinance to the Official
Zoning Map.
4. Adoption of New Zoning Map. The Council may from time to time adopt a new Official Zoning Map, which shall supersede
the prior Official Zoning Map, in the event that the Official Zoning Map becomes damaged or destroyed, or for purposes of clarity
due to a number of boundary changes, or to correct drafting errors or omissions; provided, however, any such adoption shall not
have the effect of amending the original Zoning Ordinance or any subsequent amendment thereof.
5. Boundaries. Where uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of districts as shown on the Official Zoning Map, the following rules
shall apply:
A. Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centerlines of streets, highways, alleys or other public rights-of-way
shall be construed to follow such centerlines.
B. Boundaries indicated as approximately following platted lot lines shall be construed as following such lot lines.
C. Boundaries indicated as approximately following City limits shall be construed as following City limits.
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D. Boundaries indicated as following railroad lines shall be construed to be midway between the main tracks.
E. Boundaries indicated as following shorelines shall be construed to follow such shorelines; and, in the event of change in
the shoreline, shall be construed as following a platted lot line or for unplatted property, as moving with the actual shoreline.
Boundaries described as generally following the centerline of drainageways, streams, water bodies, or other watercourses, shall
be construed to generally follow the centerline. In the event of a natural change in the location of such streams or other
watercourses, the zoning district boundary shall be construed as generally moving with the centerline.
F. Boundaries not capable of being determined in the previous paragraphs shall be as dimensioned on the Official Zoning
Map; or, if not dimensioned, shall be determined by the scale shown on the Map.
192.02 SITE PLAN REQUIREMENTS.
1. Purpose and Application. It is the intent and purpose of this Section to establish a procedure which will enable the City to
review certain proposed improvements to property within specified zoning districts of the City to ensure compliance with all
applicable zoning, subdivision, and building regulations. Site plans in conformance with this Section, with the exception of site
plans for one-family and two-family dwellings and their associated accessory structures (See Chapter 197.03), shall be required
whenever any person proposes to place any building, structure or hard surfacing on any tract or parcel of land.
2. Site Plan Approval Prerequisite to Building Permit and Certificate of Occupancy and Use Issuance. No building permit shall
be issued for the construction of any structure nor approval of hard surfacing that is subject to the provisions of this Section
and/or Chapter 156 of the Ankeny Municipal Code until a site plan has been submitted covering the land upon which such structure
or hard surfacing is to be located, and further, approved for such development in accordance with this Section and/or Chapter 156.
No certificate of occupancy and use shall be issued for such structure or hard surfacing until all terms and conditions of the approved
site plan have been satisfactorily completed or provided for.
3. Design Standards. The standards of design provided in this Section are intended to establish criteria for those items that affect
the physical aspect of Ankeny’s environment. These criteria are not intended to restrict design; however, they are intended to create
a focus on development that maintains a satisfactory function and appearance within the City. It is the intent of these regulations to
maintain or enhance neighborhood character, preserve values, and promote the public health, safety, and general welfare.
A. Site Development.
(1) The orientation, alignment, spacing and placement of a building, driveway, parking area and/or service area on the
site shall be compatible with and complimentary to buildings and sites in the neighboring area.
(2) The site shall be planned to be compatible with the streetscape that is prevalent in the area.
(3) The site shall provide for adequate parking and circulation for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The site shall include
a direct, clear, and safe pedestrian connection from adjacent public sidewalks to the entrances of buildings within the
development, separate from vehicular traffic.
(4) The site shall have such entrances and exits upon adjacent streets and such internal traffic circulation pattern as will
not unduly increase congestion or decrease safety on the site or surrounding public streets. Studies of the traffic impact
shall be provided as required per the currently adopted City policy.
(5) Parking areas shall be treated with plantings, berms, or other means so as to reduce their impact on public ways and
adjoining properties.
(6) Loading and unloading docks, delivery areas, refuse and waste removal areas, outside storage areas, fuel tanks, and
generators shall be treated with decorative elements, building wall extensions, plantings, berms, or other means so as to
screen them from view from public ways and adjoining properties.
(7) All newly installed utility lines shall be underground and entry fixtures located away from high use areas or screened
in an approved manner.
(8) Exterior lighting, when used, shall enhance the building design and the adjoining landscape. All lighting should be
appropriate to the use of the building and surrounding properties with intensity of illumination limited to its intended use
and not as an attraction to the site. Lighting shall be directed to eliminate all light spill onto adjoining properties in any
AG, R, or MU Districts or onto residential uses and minimizing light spill on all other properties.
(9) The design shall provide adequate provisions for surface and subsurface drainage. Storm water detention, drainage
and storm sewer improvements shall be designed to reduce the danger of erosion, flooding, landslide or other endangerment
of surrounding property.
(10) Utility connections to water and sanitary sewer lines shall be designed so as to not overload existing public utility
lines. Studies of system loading shall be provided if deemed necessary by the City.
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(11) Site design should provide open space in areas visible to the public. A majority of the required open space should be
located in front and side yards.
(12) Landscaping shall enhance architectural features and contribute to the beauty and utility of a development. Existing
trees should be protected whenever possible to maintain the maturity of the site. Street trees are encouraged along all
abutting streets and if included, shall adhere to the regulations outlined in Section 200.04.02.O. of the Municipal Code
B. Building Design. The standards listed herein this section shall not apply to dwellings containing 12 contiguous dwelling
units or less.
(1) Buildings shall have good scale and maintain or enhance the established scale of buildings and sites of neighboring
buildings and sites.
(2) Materials selected for buildings shall provide compatible textures and colors with those of neighboring buildings.
(3) Materials selected for buildings shall be compatible with the architecture of the building. Materials selected for
suitability to the type of buildings and the design in which they are used. Materials should provide for strength and
permanence.
(4) All mechanical equipment or other utility hardware on roof, ground or buildings, trash and recycling bins, service
yards, storage yards, and exterior work areas shall be screened from or located as not to be visible from public view, using
materials consistent with the building and site. Trash and recycling enclosures shall be constructed of permanent materials
to match the building.
(5) Multiple buildings on the same site shall provide for compatible and complimentary design materials while limiting
repetitive, monotonous design.
(6) Specific Building Material Standards:
a. Base. All buildings will have a base, at least three feet in height, around the entire perimeter of the building that
consists of a durable, permanent material, such as:
a.

Brick, including full-depth and thin brick;

b.

Stone, including natural or cultured stone that simulates natural stone, limestone, granite, and marble;

c. Architectural (textured, not smooth face) concrete masonry units (CMU), including split face, weathered
face, sandblasted face, or ground face block;
d.

Pre-cast concrete;

e.

Other similar durable material as approved by the Plan and Zoning Commission; or

f. Secondary materials as outlined in Chapter 192.02.3.B(6)(c) may be used up to 20% of the required base per
façade as part of an architectural accent and at the discretion of the Director and/or Plan and Zoning Commission.
b. Primary Materials. The primary building materials used for exterior finishes must be of high-quality and
durability. These include:
a.

Brick, including full-depth and thin brick;

b.

Stone, including natural or cultured stone that simulates natural stone, limestone, granite, and marble;

c.

Glass;

d. Architectural (textured, not smooth face) concrete masonry units (CMU), including split face, weathered
face, sandblasted face, or ground face block;

c.

e.

Pre-cast concrete; or,

f.

Other similar high-quality materials as approved by the Plan and Zoning Commission.

Secondary Materials. The secondary building materials used for exterior building walls include:
a.

Stucco (Portland cement plaster) with three coats of metal lath or wire fabric lath;

b. Exterior Insulation Finish System (EIFS), provided use of a wall drainage system (barrier wall systems are
prohibited) and used only above the base of the building;
c.

Lap siding (wood, composite, fiber cement, vinyl, steel or aluminum);

d.

Pre-finished architectural panel;
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d.

e.

Architectural metal panel (minimum 26 gauge) with concealed fasteners;

f.

Metal siding with concealed fasteners; or,

g.

Other similar appropriate accent materials as approved by the Plan and Zoning Commission.

Prohibited Materials. The following exterior walls, siding, and cladding are prohibited:
a.

Corrugated galvanized metal;

b.

Corrugated metal panel;

c.

Smooth-face concrete block;

d.

Vinyl siding (nonresidential development);

e.

Plastic siding;

f.

Plywood or wood fiber;

g.

Unfired clay, sand, or shale rock; and,

h.

Fabric roofing, such as for a hoop structure building.

e. Material Requirements. Set out in Table 192.02.01, are the minimum percentage of Primary materials required
on the applicable building elevations within each Zoning District or identified, applicable land uses. For existing
developments that do not meet these minimum requirements, these standards may be lessened for new buildings or
building additions to provide for compatible and complementary design at the discretion of the Director and/or Plan
and Zoning Commission.
Table 192.02.1
Minimum Primary Material Requirements
(% of Each Building Wall)
Zoning
District 1

RL-1
RL-2
RL-3

RM-1

RM-2 4

RM-3

RH 4

UP

NMU
CMU

NC

CC

BP

LI

HI

Public
Façade 2

--

--

40

40

60

70

60

60

70

60

40

30

Other
Façade 3

--

--

10

10

40

50

40

40

50

40

30

20

Table Notes:
1.

Institutional uses such as schools, churches and civic buildings, regardless of zoning district, shall adhere
to the minimum primary material requirements listed in the RH district.

2.

Public façade refers to building elevation(s) fronting on or most directly facing a public street, alley or
park.

3.

Other façade refers to interior side or rear elevations.

4.

For developments containing more than 12 contiguous dwelling units.

(7) Specific Building Architectural Standards. In addition to the minimum building material standards, the following
minimum architectural standards shall be applied.
a. Residential Uses. The following minimum standards shall be applied to all townhouse, rowhouse, and multiplefamily dwellings containing more than 12 contiguous dwelling units:
i. All townhouse, rowhouse, and multiple-family residential developments shall adhere to the minimum
primary building materials requirements per the respective zoning district set forth in Table 192.02.1.
ii. Street facing building facades must use vertical and horizontal elements, such as porches, stoops, bay
windows, balconies or other recesses and projections, together with building material and color changes, to break
up wall planes. For townhouse/rowhouse dwellings, individual dwelling units shall be clearly distinguished.
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iii. Developments with three or more buildings must substantially vary the buildings elements, such as height,
scale (number of units), materials, and color.
iv. Building and dwelling unit entrances shall be clearly distinguishable through its architectural design and
treatment. Each unit facing a public street must have a clearly visible front pedestrian entrance with either a porch,
portico, stoop or other architectural design element to clearly delineate the entrance.
v. Pitched roofs shall have the appropriate slope and shall have generous roof overhang for the architectural
style of the structure. In no instance shall a pitched roof overhang be less than one foot in depth.
vi. Flat roofs shall have a generous architectural element at the top such as a cornice row or parapet to clearly
delineate the top of the structure.
vii. Rooflines may not be one long continuous element and must be broken, have a change in slope or parapet
height, or have architectural elements introduced, such as dormers, gables, or sheds.
viii. Driveways and garage doors facing public streets may be no wider than 50 percent of the linear front elevation
of the unit it serves.
ix. When facing a public street, where two garages for different units are adjacent, the garage faces for the two
units must be offset a minimum of two feet.
x. Detached garages must be accessed from a shared parking court or private drive and must generally meet the
same building material and design standards required of the principal buildings.
b. Nonresidential uses. The following minimum standards shall be applied to all commercial, office, industrial,
mixed-use, institutional, and civic buildings:
i. All commercial, office, industrial, and mixed-use developments shall adhere to the minimum primary
building materials requirements per the respective zoning district set forth in Table 192.02.1. Civic and
institutional buildings, such as schools, churches, and governmental buildings shall adhere to the minimum
primary material requirements of the RH district listed in Table 192.02.1, regardless of the zoning district in which
they are located.
ii. All building facades must use vertical or horizontal elements, such as articulated entries, windows, wall
projections, recesses, alcoves, porticos, columns, staggered wall planes, soldier courses, to break up wall planes.
iii. A development with more than one building must be of a unified building design by using common building
materials, colors and signage and to avoid monotony in design, the buildings shall vary in roofline, height and
scale/mass/size.
iv. Building entrances must be clearly distinguishable through its architectural design and treatment and wall
signage location.
v. Pitched roofs shall have the appropriate slope and shall have generous roof overhang for the architectural
style of the structure. In no instance shall a pitched roof overhang be less than 18 inches in depth.
vi. Flat roofs shall have a generous architectural element at the top such as a cornice row or parapet to clearly
delineate the top of the structure.
vii. Rooflines may not be one long continuous element and must be broken, change in slope, or have architectural
elements introduced, such as dormers, gables, sheds, or change in parapet height.
C. Signs.
a. Every sign shall have good scale and proportion in relationship to its site and function, as well as the signage and use
of neighboring properties.
b.

Building signs shall be designed as an integral architectural element of the building.

c. Monument signs shall be designed to provide elements compatible with the building design and architectural elements.
Where pylon signs are allowed, pylons or poles shall be concealed using architectural materials compatible with the
building.
d.

Each sign shall be designed in a manner not to compete for attention with signs on adjoining premises.

D. Factors for Evaluation. The following factors and characteristics, which affect the function and appearance of a
development, will govern the Plan and Zoning Commission’s evaluation of a site plan submission:
a.

Conformance to design standards and other applicable Code requirements;
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b.

Location of the buildings, and the relationship to the development site and neighboring buildings and sites;

c.

Layout and utilization of building, parking, driveways, and open spaces;

d. Architectural character, including scale, style, color, and type of material, of the building and signage as it relates to
the neighborhood;
e.

Circulation, vehicular and pedestrian;

f.

Impact on sanitary sewer, storm sewer, drainage, water, and street systems.

4. Submittal Requirements. All exhibits must be folded if larger than letter size and submitted at a suitable size and scale to be
legible. However, large mounting boards, material samples, or other exhibits not meeting the criteria may be used for Commission
presentation. An adequate number of color photographs are required to illustrate the site, including existing features and surrounding
buildings. Photos may also be used to illustrate installations on other sites that are similar to the applicant’s proposal. Fees shall be
provided in accordance with the current fee resolution adopted by City Council. Site plans shall be prepared by a Professional
Engineer, Land Surveyor, Landscape Architect, or an Architect. The site plan must be certified as “substantially correct” by a
Professional Engineer, Land Surveyor, Landscape Architect, or Architect, licensed by the State of Iowa. All required plans, unless
waived by the Department Director, shall include as a minimum the following items of information:
A. Site Plan.
(1) Name, address, and phone number of the applicant, property owner(s), and person or firm preparing the site plan
(2) Property address(es)
(3) Date of preparation
(4) North Arrow
(5) Scale – not to exceed 1”=100’
(6) Legal Description
(7) Vicinity map at 1” = 500’ or larger showing general location of property
(8) Plat or Survey
(9) References, location, and description of survey monument found
(10) All property and street placement lines and grades
(11) Dimensions of the present lot and lot area
(12) Lot numbers
(13) I.D. and ownership of adjacent land
(14) Lot survey, where possible ownership or boundary problems exist
(15) Existing and proposed zoning designation of the property and adjoining properties
(16) Existing and proposed buildings, additions, and structures including size and location, number of building, type of
buildings, required building setback lines and dimensions from proposed building(s), site improvements to lot lines,
number of dwelling units, proposed use for each building (to determine Code compliance), total floor area of each building,
exact exterior dimensions of each building, location of entrances, square footage of each type of use
(17) Streets, including the location of adjacent public streets, private drives, intersections, dimensions of existing, adjacent,
and proposed street widths, and street names
(18) Right-of-way (ROW) width dimensions
(19) Existing and proposed easements, including sizes
(20) Existing and proposed utility lines, including sizes and public/private designation
(21) Fire hydrant locations & hydrant coverage map
(22) Stormwater detention calculations and areas
(23) Location, grade, and dimension of existing and proposed paved areas and of all abutting streets

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(24) Parking calculations, including proposed building use, building square footage, and required and proposed number
of off-street parking spaces
(25) Proposed ingress and egress to the site including sidewalks, parking area(s), parking stalls (regular and handicapped),
and adjacent streets
(26) Traffic flow and control measures
(27) Existing and proposed contours (minimum of 2’ intervals and if there is less than 2% slope, use 1’ contours or spot
elevations)
(28) Permanent improvements including sidewalks, bike paths, loading area, dividers, planters, etc.
(29) Location and type of buffers or screening for property boundaries, parking areas, outdoor storage and trash/recycling
bins, and large storm water detention areas
(30) General type and location of any existing or proposed signage
(31) Location of floodplain, springs, streams, and other bodies of water, drainage, and storm water detention.
(32) Landscaping plan, including the location of existing trees with a diameter of six inches or greater and amount and type
of proposed landscaping, plantings, fences, walls, or other screening as required by the zoning regulations and the design
standards, planting schedule, and location of open space(s) including screening and shading calculations
(33) Location and type of any existing or proposed lighting on the property along with a photometric lighting plan
(34) A Traffic Impact Study meeting the requirements of the adopted City policies when applicable.
(35) Easement documents for all public easement areas in the format provided by the City.
(36) Any other information not herein stated above that is specific to the site plan and deemed necessary by the Department
Director
B. Elevation Views.
(1) Exterior elevation views of all proposed building walls, including trash enclosures, mail kiosks, or other substantial
structures, for the purpose of understanding the overall design of the structure, materials proposed to be used, the location
of windows, doors, overhangs, projection height, etc., and the grade relationship to floor elevation, and the number of
stories of each proposed building and of each building to be retained.
(2) General location of all proposed building signs.
5.

Pre-Application Conference.
A. Whenever any person proposes to apply for a building permit for other than a one-family or two-family dwelling or related
accessory structure, the applicant shall submit to the City a request for a pre-application conference.
B. The conference shall include the applicant or representative, the site designer/contractor and the Department Director or
designee. The purpose of the conference shall be to acquaint the City staff with the proposed development and to acquaint the
applicant or representative of the applicant with the procedures and with any issues that might be known regarding the site and
proposal that may impact such development.
C. The applicant shall furnish a legal description of the platted real estate certified by a licensed land surveyor at the time of
requesting a pre-application conference.

6.

Technical Review Committee.
A. The technical review committee is the staff committee charged with review responsibility on official submittals. This
committee generates comments on regulations affecting the proposed site development. A complete submittal for this meeting
includes all items, quantities, and fees listed on the respective application currently published by the Development Services
Department.
B. The technical review committee shall review an official site plan submittal consistent with the development schedule
currently published by the Development Services Department. Pursuant to that review, the technical review committee shall
notify the applicant in writing of any revisions or additional information needed to complete the review. If necessary, the
applicant shall make revisions and resubmit the revised plan to the City according to the aforementioned development schedule.

7.

Plan and Zoning Commission.

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A. This is the final review step for a site plan. If a site plan complies with requirements of the technical review committee,
the site plan shall be submitted to the Plan and Zoning Commission for review consistent with the development schedule. A
complete submittal for this meeting includes all items and quantities listed on the respective application currently published by
the Development Services Department.
B. In the case of disapproval or approval subject to conditions, the Plan and Zoning Commission shall indicate the reasons
therefor and shall return a copy of the plan to the applicant for revisions in accordance with action taken. The applicant shall
then submit the revised plan for review by the Technical Review Committee and if the site plan complies with the requirements
of this Section, the site plan shall be submitted for certification by the Plan and Zoning Commission.
C. The City shall retain the duly certified original in the City’s permanent files.
8.

Appeals.
A. The applicant may, upon notice to the Zoning Board of Adjustment, appeal in whole or in part any determination or action
of the Plan and Zoning Commission made within the scope of this Section. Appeal shall be made without cost by written
notification of the appeal received by the Recording Secretary within 90 days after the date of the action from which appeal is
sought. The Recording Secretary shall place the matter on the agenda of the next regular meeting of the Zoning Board of
Adjustment, provided such appeal is filed at least ten days prior to such meeting.
B. The Zoning Board of Adjustment shall decide all appeals within 30 days after written notification of the appeal has been
received by the Recording Secretary, provided that the appellant may agree to a longer period not to exceed 60 days after the
written notification of the appeal has been received by the Recording Secretary. Failure to decide the appeal within such period
shall have the effect of overturning the Plan and Zoning Commission’s disapproval and approving the site plan as appealed.
C. At the Zoning Board of Adjustment meeting, the appealing party or parties shall be presented a reasonable opportunity to
present their views. A four-fifths vote of the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall be necessary to overturn or modify the action
of the Plan and Zoning Commission.
D. A site plan that has been denied by the Plan and Zoning Commission or Zoning Board of Adjustment may be amended
and resubmitted by the applicant to the City, pursuant to the terms of this section, upon payment of appropriate fees.

9. Validity of Approval. A site plan shall become effective upon certification of approval by the Plan and Zoning Commission.
In the event that an appeal is filed, a site plan shall not become effective until all appeals have been decided. The approval of any
site plan required by this Section shall remain valid for two years after the date of approval, after which time the site plan shall be
deemed null and void if the development has not been established or actual construction commenced. For the purpose of this Section,
“actual construction” means that a building permit has been issued and the permanent placement of construction materials has
started and is proceeding without undue delay. Preparation of plans, securing financial arrangements, letting of contracts, grading
of property, or stockpiling of materials on the site shall not constitute actual construction.
10. Site Plan Enforcement. Failure to comply with and maintain the approved site plan, unless another site plan has been submitted
in accordance with this Section, shall be considered a violation of the Zoning Ordinance.
11. Site Plan Amendment. Any approved site plan may be amended in accordance with the standards and procedures established
herein, including payment of fees; provided, the Department Director may waive such procedures for those minor changes listed in
this Section. Such minor changes shall not be made unless the prior written approval for such changes is obtained from the
Department Director. No fees shall be required for such minor changes, including, but not limited to:
A. Moving building walls within the confines of the original approved building; relocation of building entrances or exits,
shortening of building canopies;
B. Changing to a more restrictive use, provided there is no reduction in the amount of off-street parking as originally approved;
this does not apply to residential uses;
C. Changing angle of parking or aisle, provided there is no reduction in the amount of off-street parking as originally
approved;
D. Substituting plant species, provided a nursery or landscape architect certifies the substituted species is similar in nature
and screening effect;
E. Changing type and design of exterior lighting fixtures, provided a certified engineer or architect certifies there will be no
change in the intensity of light at the property boundary;
F.

Increasing peripheral yards.

G. Changing type and design of exterior elevations, provided the changes remain consistent with the original intent of the
approved site plan.
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12. Applicability to Existing Site Plan. The requirements of this Section do not apply to any site plan that has been approved as of
the date of the adoption of the Ordinance codified in this Section; provided, if the site plan has been deemed null and void under
the provisions of Section 192.02.9, then a new site plan may be required.
13. Applicability to Existing Development. The requirements of this Section do not apply to the placement of any structure for
which building permits have been issued as of the date of the adoption of the ordinance codified in this Section; provided, if such
building permit shall expire, then a new building permit shall not be issued until the requirements of this Section have been met.
14. Exceptions to Site Plan Process.
A. For certain smaller development projects, an abbreviated administrative approval process may be allowed, which requires
an official site plan submittal and review by the Technical Review Committee, as well as review and approval or denial by the
Department Director. Such projects eligible for the abbreviated administrative approval process include:
(1) Building additions of twenty-five percent (25%) or less of the existing ground coverage and/or total floor area of the
existing building; and
(2) Non-building uses of twenty-five percent (25%) or less of the existing non-building area of the site.
B. For certain projects deemed small or minor in nature, no official site plan submittal shall be required prior to permit
issuance. Such projects include the development or redevelopment of a single-family dwelling or two-family dwelling in any
zoning district, as well as those meeting any of the following criteria:
(1) A building addition not more than 600 square feet;
(2) An accessory structure not more than 600 square feet;
(3) Hard surfacing of not more than 2,000 square feet.
192.03 UNLISTED OR FUNCTIONALLY SIMILAR USES. Each of the use categories listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential
Permitted Uses by District, and Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential Permitted Uses by District, are, and individual uses may be, defined
in Chapter 190, Definitions. The Director is authorized to deem an unlisted use as functionally similar to a specifically listed use. The
property owner or applicant may appeal the decision of the Director to the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

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192.04 AG AGRICULTURE DISTRICT. The AG District is intended and designed for the preservation of natural areas,
continuation of agricultural uses, and accommodation of very low-density residential development.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1 Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the AG District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the AG District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the AG District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the AG District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the AG District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.05 RL–1 ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT – 85’. The RL–1 District is intended and designed to provide for singlefamily detached residential development of large sized lots together with supporting public and civic uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RL-1 District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RL-1 District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RL-1 District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RL-1 District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RL-1 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.06 RL–2 ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT - 70’. The RL–2 District is intended and designed to provide for singlefamily detached residential development of moderate sized lots together with supporting public and civic uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RL-2 District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RL-2 District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RL-2 District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RL-2 District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RL-2 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.07 RL–3 ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT – 55’. The RL–3 District is intended and designed to provide for singlefamily detached residential development of small sized lots together with supporting public and civic uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RL-3 District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RL-3 District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RL-3 District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RL-3 District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RL-3 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.08 RM–1 ONE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT – 50’. The RM–1 District is intended and designed to provide for singlefamily detached residential development of very small sized lots together with supporting public and civic uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RM-1 District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RM-1 District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RM-1 District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RM-1 District shall be provided
in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RM-1 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.09 RM–2 ONE-FAMILY ATTACHED DISTRICT. The RM–2 District is intended and designed to provide for single-family
attached, two-family, and lower density townhouse and rowhouse residential development together with supporting public and civic
uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RM-2 District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RM-2 District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RM-2 District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RM-2 District shall be provided
in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RM-2 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.10 RM–3 MOBILE HOME PARK RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The RM–3 District is intended and designed to provide for
certain residential areas of the City now developed with mobile home parks, which by reason of their design and location are compatible
with surrounding residential areas and areas where similar development seems likely to occur.
1. Occupancy Outside Park Restricted. It is unlawful to use or occupy a mobile home as a dwelling place outside a mobile home
park, unless such mobile home has been converted to real estate as provided by State law and meets with all the requirements of
the building, plumbing, health, sanitary, electrical, and zoning ordinances of the City.
2. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses and those in accordance with the provisions of Subsection 5 of this Section,
shall be permitted in the RM-3 District.
3. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, and those in accordance with the
provisions of Subsection 5 of this Section, shall be permitted in the RM-3 District unless otherwise excluded.
4. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RM-3 District, subject to the height limitations found in Section 191.11 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance. The following additional minimum requirements shall be observed in the RM–3 District:
A. For any permitted use excepting a mobile home park, the minimum requirements shall be the same as those set out for the
RM-3 District.
B. The minimum mobile home space excluding yard requirements shall measure at least 50 by 80 feet.
C. Mobile homes shall be located on each space so that there will be at least a 20-foot clearance between each mobile home;
a 10-foot open space between the mobile home, including any permanently enclosed appendage and any driveway, walkway
or mobile home space boundary; and a 10-foot open space at the rear of the mobile home.
5.

Mobile Home Park Storm Shelters.
A. General Requirements. Every mobile home park of ten or more mobile home spaces which is constructed after the effective
date of the ordinance codified in this Section shall be provided with above or below-grade storm shelters which shall:
(1) Have a minimum floor area of seven (7) square feet for each mobile home space in said mobile home community;
(2) Be designed by a licensed structural engineer or architect and built in accordance with plans as approved by the City
Engineer, Building Official or licensed structural engineer or architect;
(3) Be designed and constructed to meet all Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) structural guidelines.
(4) Be located outside of the floodplain or meet the requirements of Chapter 193, Floodplain Regulations.
(5) Be designed and constructed to meet the minimum lighting, ventilation and exiting requirements of the applicable
City and State currently adopted construction and installation codes;
(6) Be designed and constructed to meet all applicable requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
(7) Be located no farther than 1,320 linear feet from the furthest mobile home space in the mobile home community;
(8) Provide area for the parking of cars of residents who drive to the facility. This is not intended to require a structure
built solely as a shelter to provide a paved parking lot.
B. Additions to Existing Mobile Home Parks. For any addition of ten or more mobile home spaces to any existing mobile
home park, a storm shelter which complies with the general requirements of Paragraph A of this Subsection shall be provided
to serve such additional spaces. For any addition of fewer than ten mobile home spaces to an existing mobile home park which
otherwise complies with the requirements of this Section, there is no requirement that an additional shelter be provided to serve
such additional spaces; provided, however, when two or more such additions of fewer than ten mobile home spaces results in
a cumulative addition of ten or more mobile home spaces to a mobile home park which otherwise complies with the
requirements of said subparagraphs, a storm shelter which complies with the general requirements of the Section shall be
provided to serve such additional spaces.
C. Restroom Facilities. Restroom facilities in required storm shelters are not mandatory. When restrooms are installed, toilets
may be either flush-type operating from normal water supply, chemical, or other approved types.
D. Access to Shelters. The mobile home park owner, or such owner’s designated agent or representative, shall be responsible
for making the storm shelter accessible and usable in times of need. It is unlawful for any required storm shelter to be used for
storage purposes if such storage reduces the minimum floor area available for shelter of persons below the requirements of this
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Section.
E. Existing Nonconforming Mobile Home Parks. Any mobile home park of ten or more mobile home spaces which has an
existing above or below-grade storm shelter as of the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Section which does not
conform with the requirements of this Section, shall be deemed a nonconforming mobile home park with regard to the
requirements for storm shelters and may continue to exist as a nonconforming mobile home park for so long as said existing
shelter remains in place and usable; provided, however, that any mobile home spaces added to such park after the effective date
of the ordinance codified in this Section shall require storm shelters as provided in this Section.
6.

Petition to Develop.
A. Each petition for a change to the RM–3 Zoning district classification shall be accompanied by a mobile home park site
plan. Said plan shall show each mobile home space, the water, electrical and sewer lines or septic tank location serving each
trailer space, the location of garbage cans, water hydrants, service buildings, driveways, walkways, recreation areas, required
yards, parking facilities, lighting, and landscaping.
B. The plan shall be considered by the Plan and Zoning Commission and the Council, who may approve said plan or require
such changes thereto as are deemed necessary to effectuate the intent and purpose of this Section.

7. Off-Street Parking, Loading and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RM-3 District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
8.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RM-3 District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.11 RH MULTIPLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT. The RH District is intended and designed to provide for apartments
and higher density townhouse and rowhouse residential development together with supporting public and civic uses.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District,
including those listed as permitted nonresidential uses, shall be permitted in the RH District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the RH District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building Standards,
shall be observed in the RH District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications contained in
Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the RH District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the RH District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.12 UP UPTOWN DISTRICT. The UP District is intended to provide for a concentration and variety of residential development,
retail stores, professional offices and service activities located within the Central Business District.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the UP District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the UP District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the UP District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. There is no minimum requirement for off-street parking and loading in the UP
District.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the UP District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.13 NMU NEIGHBORHOOD MIXED-USE DISTRICT. The NMU District is intended to provide for a mixture of residential
and neighborhood commercial uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format at a neighborhood scale, which may be for transitioning areas
along corridors, infill and redevelopment sites, or as a planned, mixed-use development.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the NMU District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the NMU District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the NMU District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the NMU District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the NMU District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.14 CMU COMMUNITY MIXED-USE DISTRICT. The CMU District is intended to provide for a mixture of residential and
community commercial uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format at a community scale, which may be for transitioning areas along
corridors, infill and redevelopment sites, or as a planned, mixed-use development.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CMU District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CMU District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the CMU District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the CMU District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the CMU District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.15 NC NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICT. The NC District is intended to provide for the convenience shopping
of persons living in neighborhood residential areas and for general uses and activities of a retail and personal service character. Only
those uses are permitted which are necessary to satisfy the local needs which occur so frequently as to require commercial facilities in
proximity to residential areas. Generally, these are low-intensity office and business establishments.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the NC District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the NC District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the NC District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the NC District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the NC District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.16 CC COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT. The CC District is intended to provide for major retail shopping areas
outside of Uptown and other neighborhood areas. These districts include much of the commercial property existing along the major
streets and highways of the City. The uses permitted are intended to accommodate both the general retail consumer and the needs and
services of the automotive-traveling consumer.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CC District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CC District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the CC District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the CC District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the CC District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.17 BP BUSINESS PARK DISTRICT. The BP District is intended to provide a campus-like office, research, technology, and
office-warehouse park with greater site and building design standards compared to the Industrial Districts.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the BP District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the BP District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the BP District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the BP District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the BP District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.18 LI LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT. The LI District is intended for less intensive industrial uses that may include office,
warehousing, distributions, and light assembly of parts, materials, and equipment, with operations conducted indoors without the
creation of smoke, gas, odor, dust, soot, or other noxious elements.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the LI District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the LI District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the LI District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the LI District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions in Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the LI District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.19 HI HEAVY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT. The HI District is intended to provide areas of the City for activities and uses of a
heavy industrial character that may result in the creation of smoke, gas, odor, dust, soot, or other noxious elements. Such uses should be
located away from major residential areas which are generally incompatible. The HI District is the least restrictive of any district and
may accommodate the widest range of permissible uses; however, certain uses which, by reason of undesirable characteristics, may only
be permitted subject to approval by the Board of Adjustment in accordance with appropriate safeguards.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the HI District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the HI District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the HI District, subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the HI District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the HI District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.20 CU CIVIC/UTILITY DISTRICT. The CU District is intended for publicly owned and operated uses that are unique in nature
and scale and warrant their own Zoning District. This District is also intended to allow for the development of major public utility
facilities where required to serve the needs of the community.
1. Permitted Principal Uses. Only the uses of land or structures listed in Table 190.20.05-1, Nonresidential and Mixed-Use
Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CU District.
2. Permitted Accessory Uses. Permitted accessory uses of land or structures customarily incidental and subordinate to one of the
permitted principal uses, listed in Table 190.20.06-1, Accessory Permitted Uses by District, shall be permitted in the CU District
unless otherwise excluded.
3. Size and Area Regulations. The minimum requirements listed in Table 190.20.05-2, Nonresidential Lot and Building
Standards, shall be observed in the CU District subject to the height limitations found in Chapter 191.10 and the modifications
contained in Chapter 196.03 of this Zoning Ordinance.
4. Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Screening. Spaces for off-street parking and loading in the CU District shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 194.
5.

Signs. Signs shall be permitted in the CU District in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 195.

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192.21 PUD PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT. The purpose of this district is to promote and encourage development
or redevelopment of tracts of land on a planned, unified basis by allowing greater flexibility and diversification than is normally
permitted by conventional single lot development in other zoning districts because of the substantial public advantages of planned
development. Although Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) may appear to deviate in certain respects from a literal interpretation of the
comprehensive plan, regulations adapted to such unified planning and development are intended both to accomplish the purposes of
zoning and other applicable regulations to an equivalent or higher degree than where such regulations are designed to control
unscheduled development on individual lots, and to promote economical and efficient land use through an improved level of amenities,
appropriate and harmonious variety, creative design, and a better living environment.
1. Where Permitted. Planned Unit Developments shall be permitted on any two-acre or larger tract of land that has been zoned or
rezoned for PUD purposes by the Council. Said PUDs may consist of residential, commercial, industrial, public, semi-public and/or
conservancy land uses.
2.

Procedure.
A. Pre-application Conference. In order to eliminate unnecessary expenditures of time and money, the developer shall first
schedule a pre-application conference with the Department Director, who shall involve representatives of other departments as
deemed appropriate. The Department Director may require submittal of a generalized sketch plan providing such information
as follows:
(1) Location and size of the overall site, and of the individual types of development or uses proposed within the site.
(2) Existing topography, indicating major earthwork areas, storm water runoff and detention considerations, floodplain,
and any problem areas.
(3) Existing tree masses, geological and environmentally important characteristics.
(4) Generalized vehicular and pedestrian systems and parking areas.
(5) Generalized building locations.
(6) Approximate gross density, and number and types of dwelling units in accordance with the comprehensive plan;
approximate gross floor areas of commercial and industrial land use.
(7) Generalized utility line considerations with sanitary sewer capacity limitations so noted.
(8) Generalized public and private ownership boundaries, including common ownership areas, if any.
The Department Director shall have fifteen days in which to review and comment on the pre-application sketch plan. Following
the department’s review, the developer may request an informal consideration of the proposal by the Plan and Zoning
Commission. Said consideration shall be non-binding on either party.
B. Application for Rezoning. Following the pre-application conference, the applicant shall submit a petition for rezoning in
accordance with standard City procedures for rezoning, accompanied by a master plan and related documents containing the
information required by other paragraphs of this Section, and required fees. The petition and master plan shall be referred to
the Plan and Zoning Commission for study and report, and for public hearing as required by this Zoning Ordinance for rezoning.
The Commission shall review the master plan for conformity to the standards of this Section, and may approve the plan as
submitted; require the petitioner to modify, alter, adjust, or amend the plan as deemed necessary to preserve the intent and
purpose of this Section to promote public health, safety, morals and general welfare; or recommend that it be denied. The action
of the Commission shall be reported to the City Council, whereupon the Council may approve or disapprove the petition and
master plan as reported or may require such changes thereto as deemed necessary to effectuate the intent and purpose of this
Section.
C. Final Plans. Final plans for the Planned Unit Development shall be comprised of site plans and/or preliminary and final
subdivision plats as appropriate to the situation due to requirements of the site planning and subdivision ordinances or specific
provisions of the master plan. Such site plans and plats shall contain all information and be processed in the manner set forth
in said ordinances, in addition to complying with any specific provisions of the master plan, and shall generally comply with
the development concepts outlined in the master plan. No public notice or hearing shall be required for final plans unless
required by the master plan or caused to be required by the Commission or Council as deemed appropriate, provided that
deviation from the master plan may be permitted as refinements to the design and planning if not defined by this Zoning
Ordinance as a substantial modification requiring amendment to the master plan. Such deviations shall be expressly set out and
shall be approved by the Commission and Council. Final plans may cover all or part of the Planned Unit Development, provided
that a final plan covering only a part of a PUD is hereby defined as a phase irrespective of contrary provisions by the master
plan and shall demonstrate the ability to be self-sustaining in terms of access, services, utilities, open space, economic viability,
and other major considerations. If it is the desire of the petitioner, preliminary plat and/or final site plan approval may be
obtained at the time of master plan approval by expressly declaring such intent and filing all information required by the
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subdivision and site planning ordinances. Final site plan approval shall not be granted for an unplatted parcel. Upon approval
of final plans, building permits shall be issued in the same manner as for building permits generally. In any event where platting
is required, no building permits shall be issued until the final plat is approved and recorded and all other requirements complied
with. Final plans shall be binding on the petitioner and any and all successors in title so long as PUD zoning applies to the land,
unless amended in accordance with the procedures set forth.
D. Amendments or Modifications. Substantial modification to the master plan shall be processed in the same manner as a
rezoning pursuant to Chapter 196.04. Notice and public hearing requirements and the effect of a denial shall be the same as for
a rezoning, provided that the notification area shall be those property owners legally required to be notified as opposed to the
entire PUD. Further provided, in the event a requested amendment for a portion of the entire PUD is denied, such action shall
not create any limitations under rezoning procedure on the filing of an amendment to another portion of the PUD having a
substantially different notification area. Any ambiguities or disputes between this Section and procedures for rezoning shall be
resolved in favor of the more restrictive requirements. Substantial modifications are hereby defined to include, but are not
limited to, the following:
(1) Increased density;
(2) Intensification of use by changing to a lower classification, with conventional single family being the highest
classification and progressing to attached single family, multiple family, commercial offices, retail, warehousing, and light
industry, to heavy industry;
(3) Addition of uses, or elimination of conditions or restrictions on a use or uses;
(4) Other modifications considered probable to generate increased traffic, sewage, water consumption, or other
detrimental conditions;
(5) Significant modifications to peripheral buffering or screening, setbacks, height, locations of buildings, drives, or other
improvements, which were intended for protection of proximate properties, provided that substitution of equivalent
screening materials shall not be considered a substantial modification;
(6) Modifications to the street pattern, such as that of major streets or continuations of existing streets, which will have a
demonstrable impact on traffic flow such as to effectively change the functional classification of the street;
(7) Modifications to access which may lead to increased congestion, or to additional commercial or industrial traffic on a
local residential street; or
(8) Other changes deemed substantial by the Department Director.
A modification to the Master Plan not rising to the level of a Substantial Modification shall be considered a Minor Modification.
Minor Modifications shall be processed similarly to Site Plan Amendments and shall be reviewed by City staff through the
normal development review process and then ultimately approved or denied by the Plan and Zoning Commission.
Modifications to final plans shall follow the procedures of the site planning or subdivision ordinances, as appropriate.
3. Information Required on Master Plan. The following information, plans and maps shall be submitted as part of the application
for a Planned Unit Development:
A. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of owners, developer, and designer; name of development, date, north point,
and scale.
B. Legal description of the PUD, and map of the boundary of the proposed PUD as well as interior boundaries of proposed
development phases, and of any existing separate ownerships.
C. Sufficient information on adjacent properties to indicate relationships to the proposed development, including such
information as land divisions, land use, pedestrian and vehicular circulation, significant natural features or physical
improvements, and drainage pattern.
D. Existing site conditions including contours at intervals sufficient to indicate topographic conditions (generally two feet),
drainageways and floodplain, heavy woods or other significant natural areas, and existing structures; multiple family,
commercial, and industrial structures, and recreation facilities; further delineating areas with different uses or building types,
and gross density per acre.
E. General location and size of areas to be dedicated or reserved for common open space, park, schools, recreation area, and
similar uses, and how any private facilities are proposed to be maintained.
F. Existing and proposed general circulation systems, including streets, pedestrian ways, and major points of access with
estimated traffic generation.
G. Existing and proposed general sanitary and storm sewer systems, water mains, and drainage ways.
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H. Proposed development standards, including but not limited to, uses, density, floor area ratios, or bulk regulations including
open space, lot areas and widths, setbacks, and exceptions or variances from general requirements of zoning and other
ordinances.
I. Proposed architectural standards for all structures located within the proposed PUD, including a listing of allowable
building materials and elevations drawings or photos of typical buildings allowed within the PUD. It is intended that the
architectural design is to be elevated above the normal, but in no case shall the architectural standards of the PUD be less than
required in the Site Plan requirements for all other developments in the City.
J.

Estimated sewer and water usage computations in accordance with the criteria of the regulating agency.

K. Treatment of transitional zones around the perimeter of the project for protection of adjoining properties, including
setbacks and landscaping areas, fences or other screening, height limitations or other provisions.
L. A narrative or graphic explanation of the planning and design concepts and objectives the owner intends to follow in
implementing the proposed development, including a description of the character of the proposed development; the rationale
behind the assumptions and choices made; the compatibility with the surrounding area; and design considerations for
architecture, engineering, landscaping, open space and so forth.
M. A statement of intent with regard to selling or leasing all or portions of the proposed development.
N. Proposed energy conservation methods, such as siting or design or structures.
O. Proposed phasing timetable.
The above information should be shown in a clear and logical manner at a legible scale. In addition to the required hard copies of
the proposed PUD, where practical, the final document is required to also be submitted as one digital/electronic file that contains
all pages of the PUD. Generally, existing conditions should be illustrated on a separate sheet for sake of clarity, although existing
topography, access, utility and sewer lines and other items that are appropriate for understanding the proposal should also appear
on the proposed development plan. It is strongly recommended that an architect, landscape architect, and civil engineer be employed
to prepare the plans. The Commission or Council may require any additional information which may be needed to evaluate the
proposed PUD on the basis of special or unforeseen circumstances, or may waive any of the above requirements if it is found that
such information is unnecessary to properly evaluate the proposed PUD.
4. Development Controls. Although PUDs are intended to promote and permit flexibility of design and thereby may involve
modifications of conventional regulations or standards, certain requirements which are set forth below shall be applied to ensure
that the development is compatible with the intent of this Zoning Ordinance.
A. Any use that is approved and made a part of the master plan, subject to any conditions attached thereto, shall be permitted.
B. Height, setback, bulk, and other requirements set out in the master plan shall constitute the basis for and become the zoning
requirement for that particular PUD, provided that refinements may be made through final plan approval if not defined as a
substantial modification; in lack of any special provisions set out in the master plan, the requirements of the most proximate
zoning district, as defined by use, shall be applied.
C. Project phases shall be substantially and functionally self-contained and self-sustaining with regard to access, parking,
utilities, open space, screening and transitional elements and other support features, and be capable of supporting required
operation and maintenance activities; temporary provisions, such as turnarounds or access easements, may be required for this
purpose; the initial phases generally should not be comprised of the most intensive portions of the PUD, unless the City concurs
this is the most feasible means of developing the property in terms of access, sewer service, or similar physical constraints, or
will permit earlier development of common amenities.
D. Attention shall be given to mitigation of existing or potential land use conflicts through proper orientation, open space
setbacks, landscaping and screening, grading, traffic circulation and architectural compatibility. It is the intent of this Section
to recognize that appropriate use of design techniques will provide the required mitigation, and thereby eliminate the need for
certain conventional regulations or standards. Examples of design techniques, not requirements, are: orienting views, access,
and principal activities away from the land use needing protection by placing those least compatible activities farthest from the
common boundary and those compatible nearest to create an effective buffer; using setbacks in conjunction with landscaping
can mitigate conflicts by providing a visual buffer, controlling pedestrian access, softening visual contrast by subduing
differences in architecture and bulk, and reducing heat generated by development, and the use of dense landscaping can reduce
the width of physical separations needed for such purposes; the use of proper grading will control drainage, can alter views,
subdue sound, and channel access; fences, walls and berms can be used to channel access and control visual, sound and light
pollution; proper architectural use of color, bulk, materials and shape will enhance compatibility and reduce contrast, although
details added to the building for esthetic purpose without consideration to form and surroundings may be detrimental rather
than helpful; and proper design of pedestrian ways, streets and points of access and proper location of parking areas, will reduce
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congestion and safety hazards and help prevent introduction of noise, pollutants and other conflicts into areas with less intensive
land use. Other techniques may also be used.
5. Validity. In the event the first development phase has not commenced within two years after the date of rezoning, or if
subsequent phases are delayed more than two years beyond the indicated development schedule, the developer shall file appropriate
information detailing the reasons for the delay with the City. The Department Director shall review the circumstances and prepare
a report recommending appropriate action to be taken concerning the PUD. The Plan and Zoning Commission and Council shall
review the matter, and may continue the PUD zoning with revised time limits; require that appropriate amendments be made or
action taken, such amendments to comply with the procedures of this Section if deemed substantial; continue with PUD zoning for
part of the area, with or without revised time limits, and initiate rezoning of the remainder to an appropriate district; or initiate
rezoning of the entire parcel to an appropriate district, provided that the rezoning shall not be to a zone more restrictive than the one
applied immediately prior to the rezoning to PUD except after comprehensive planning analysis. The Commission and Council may
schedule such public hearings as deemed appropriate. Approval of a final site plan or preliminary plat shall be deemed to commence
development, provided that the permanent placement of construction materials shall have started and be proceeding without delay
within two years after the date of site plan approval, and a final plat approved and filed with the Polk County Clerk and Recorder
within one year after the date of preliminary plat approval in the event a site plan is not required. Failure to comply with this
provision shall void the site plan and preliminary plat approvals, and make the PUD subject to review as provided above. It shall
be the responsibility of the developer to comply with all prescribed time limits without notice from the City.
6. Application to Existing PUD Districts. Existing PUD districts shall comply with the requirements and provisions of this
Section, provided that no additional filings shall be required to maintain current valid status, and no currently expired approvals
shall be deemed to have been reapproved by passage of this Section. Validity of existing PUDs shall be computed according to the
time limits set forth herein from the effective date of the ordinance codified in this Section.
7.

Fees.
A. Before any action shall be taken as provided in this Section, the party or parties proposing the change shall pay the fee as
established by City Council Resolution.
B. Under no condition shall said sum or any part thereof be refunded for failure of such rezoning or substantial modification
to be enacted into law.
C. Site plans and subdivisions in a PUD shall be subject to the normal fees for such filings.

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Table 190.20.04-1
Residential Permitted Uses by District

Notes

P = Permitted | C = Conditional | S = Special | "--" Prohibited
Use Category

Subtype

Zoning District
AG

RL-1

RL-2

RL-3

RM-1 RM-2 RM-3

RH

Single-Family Detached Dwelling

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Manufactured Home

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

Mobile Home

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

Single-Family Attached or Bi-Attached Dwelling

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

P

Two-Family or Duplex Dwelling

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

P

Townhouse or Rowhouse

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

P

Apartment, Condominium, Boardinghouse, or Rooming House

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

Assisted Living Facility

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

Agriculture Sales

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Agriculture Support Service

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Animal or Crop Production

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Craft Brewery, Winery, or Distillery

S

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Nursery, Retail or Wholesale

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Stable (Public or Commercial)

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Aviation Facility (Airport, Helipad, Landing Field, etc.)

S

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Campground or Recreational Vehicle Park

S

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Cemetery

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Club, Lodge, or Veteran Organization (no beer or liquor license)

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

College or University (Public and Private)

--

--

--

--

P

P

--

P

Commercial Trade, Business, or Vocational School

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Community Garden

P

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Golf Course, Country Club, Tennis or Swimming Club (Privately-Owned)

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Golf Course, Golf Driving Range, Mini-Golf Course (Publicly-Owned)

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Government Services (Public Safety Facilities, Library, Community Center, etc.)

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Park, Playground, or Common Open Space (Public or Private)

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Place of Worship

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Post Office

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

School (including Preschool), Primary or Secondary (Public or Private)

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Major Utility

S

S

S

S

S

S

--

S

Minor Utility

C

C

C

C

C

C

--

C

Residential
Single-Family Detached

Single-Family Attached

Multiple-Family
Nonresidential

Agriculture

Civic and Institutional

Utilities

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Table 190.20.05-1
Nonresidential and Mixed-Use Permitted Uses by District

Notes

P = Permitted | C = Conditional | S = Special | | "--" Prohibited
Use Category

Subtype

Zoning District
UP

NMU

CMU

NC

CC

BP

LI

HI

CU

Residential
Single-Family Detached
Single-Family Attached

Multiple-Family

Single-Family Detached Dwelling

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Single-Family Attached or Bi-Attached Dwelling

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Two-Family or Duplex Dwelling

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Townhouse or Rowhouse

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

Apartment or Condominium

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

Boardinghouse or Rooming House

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Aviation Facility (Airport, Helipad, Landing Field, etc.)

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Cemetery

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

College or University, Public and Private

S

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

P

Civic, Institutional, and Utility

Civic and Institutional

Utilities

Commercial Trade, Business, or Vocational School

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

--

Community Garden

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Cultural Education Facility (Library, Museum, Gallery, Aquarium, etc.)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Government Services (Administration, Public Safety Facility, Emergency Services, etc.)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Park, Playground, or Common Open Space (Public or Private)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Place of Worship

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Post Office

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

School (including Preschool), Primary or Secondary (Public or Private)

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

P

Senior, Youth, or Community Center (Public)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Utility, Major

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

P

Utility, Minor

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Amusement Enterprise (Carnival, Circus, Rides, Shows, etc.)

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

--

--

Club, Lodge, Fraternal, or Veteran Organization

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Golf Course, Country Club, Tennis or Swimming Club (Privately-Owned)

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

--

S

Golf Course, Golf Driving Range, Mini-Golf Course (Publicly-Owned)

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

Recreation Facility, Indoor (Public or Private)

P

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

P

Recreation Facility, Outdoor (Public or Private)

P

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

P

Theater or Place of Public Assembly

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

Automotive Parts, Supplies, and Accessory Sales

--

C

P

C

P

--

P

P

--

Automotive Sales, Leasing, and Rental

P

--

P

--

P

--

P

P

--

Commercial

Assembly, Entertainment, and Recreation

Automotive

Automotive Service and Repair, Major

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

--

Automotive Service and Repair, Minor

S

S

C

S

C

--

P

P

--

Car Wash

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

P

--

Gas Station

--

C

P

C

P

P

P

P

--

Animal Services Facility

C

C

C

C

C

--

P

--

--

Building Material Sales or Lumberyard

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

P

--

Consumer Maintenance and Repair Service (Tailor, Dry Cleaner, etc.)

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

P

--

Page 70 of 146

Commercial Sales and Service

Food and Beverage

Health and Human Services

Lodging and Overnight Accommodations

Office and Studio

Convenience Store, Drug Store, Liquor or Tobacco Store

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

Florist, Greenhouse, or Garden Center

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

--

--

Grocery Store or Supermarket

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Handicraft or Artisanal Service

C

C

P

C

P

C

P

P

--

Hardware Store

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

P

--

Multi-Tenant Commercial Center (up to 50,000 square feet)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Multi-Tenant Commercial Center (more than 50,000 square feet)

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

--

Pawnbroker

--

--

--

--

C

--

C

C

--

Personal Service (Nail Salon, Barber, etc.)

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

--

--

Retail Sales Establishment

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

--

--

Self-Service Storage

--

--

C

--

C

C

P

P

--

Sexually Oriented Business (Ch. 140, Ankeny Municipal Code)*

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

--

Small Engine Maintenance and Repair

--

--

--

--

P

--

P

P

--

Bar, Tavern or Lounge

P

C

P

C

P

P

P

P

--

Craft Brewery, Winery, or Distillery

C

C

P

C

P

C

P

P

--

Catering Establishment

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Restaurant

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Restaurant, Drive-In or Drive-Thru

C

C

C

C

P

P

P

--

--

Adult Day Services

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

P

Assisted Living Facility

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

P

Child Care Facility

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Clinic or Urgent Care

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

P

Correctional Facility

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

S

S

Funeral Home or Mortuary Service

--

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

Hospital or Medical Lab

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

P

Wellness, Fitness, or Exercise Facility

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Bed and Breakfast Inn

C

C

C

C

C

--

--

--

--

Campground or Recreational Vehicle Park

--

--

S

--

S

--

S

--

S

Hotel, Motel, or Inn

P

--

P

--

P

P

C

--

--

Resort

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

--

--

Creative Arts Studio or Instructional Service

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Financial Institution

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

Office

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

Television or Radio Studio

P

--

P

--

P

P

P

P

--

Agriculture Sales

--

--

P

--

P

P

P

P

--

Agriculture Support Service

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

P

--

Industrial

Agriculture

Animal or Crop Production

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

--

Nursery, Retail

--

--

P

--

P

--

P

--

--

Nursery, Wholesale

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

--

Stable (Public or Commercial)

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

--

P

Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility (with outdoor storage)

--

--

--

--

C

C

P

P

--

Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility (without outdoor storage)

--

--

--

--

P

P

P

P

--

Experimental, Research, Testing, and Development Laboratory

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

P

--

Page 71 of 146

Light Industrial

Heavy Industrial

Transportation and Parking

Light Industrial, Generally

--

--

--

--

--

C

P

P

--

Manufacturing and Assembly, Light

--

--

--

--

--

C

P

P

--

Storage, Outdoor

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

--

Warehousing and Distribution (Retail or Wholesale)

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

P

--

Heavy Industrial, Generally

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

S

--

Manufacturing and Assembly, Heavy

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

S

--

Junk, Scrap, or Salvage Yard

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

S

--

Mining, Mineral Processing, or Extraction of Raw Material

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

S

--

Motor Freight or Truck Transportation Terminal

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

--

Parking Lot or Structure

P

--

P

--

P

P

P

P

P

Passenger Transportation Terminal (Bus Station, Railroad Passenger Station, etc.)

--

--

P

--

P

--

P

P

P

Truck, Tractor, Trailer, or Bus Storage, Parking Yard, Lot, or Garage

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

--

Page 72 of 146

Table 190.20.06-1
Accessory Permitted Uses by District

Notes

P = Permitted | C = Conditional | S = Special | | "--" Prohibited
Use Category

Accessory

Subtype

Zoning District
AG

RL-1

RL-2

RL-3

RM-1

RM-2

RM-3

RH

UP

NMU

CMU

NC

CC

BP

LI

HI

CU

Accessory Dwelling Unit

C

C

C

C

C

C

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Bed and Breakfast Home

C

C

C

C

C

C

--

C

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

EV Charging Station

P

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Garage or Carport (Detached)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Greenhouse (Personal)

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Home Occupation

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

In-Home Daycare

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Shed

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Small Wind Energy Conversion System

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Solar Panel Array, Small Scale

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Swimming Pool

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Animal, Crop, and Farm Equipment Storage

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Stable (Private or Non-Commercial)

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Car Wash

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

P

C

P

P

P

P

--

Caretaker's Quarters

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

--

Fuel Station

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

P

P

P

C

Nonresidential Accessory Use (Other than Listed)

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Outdoor Display

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

C

C

C

P

P

--

Outdoor Service Area

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

P

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Seasonal Sales Area

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

Solar Panel Array, Large Scale

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

C

C

C

C

C

P

P

P

Storage, Outdoor

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

C

--

C

C

C

C

--

Temporary Construction Building

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

Temporary Real Estate Office

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

P

--

--

--

--

--

--

Temporary Concrete or Asphalt Batch Plants

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Wireless Telecommunication Facility

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Temporary Seasonal Use

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

S

Page 73 of 146

Table 190.20.04-2
Residential Lot and Building Standards
Housing/
Building Type

District

Graphic Legend

Minimum Lot 1 2

Minimum Setbacks 5

Maximum Height 4

Area

Width

Depth

Feet

Front

Side

Rear

A

B

C

D

E

G

H

10 AC

250

500

45

50

35

100

AG - Agricultural
AG

Rural Homestead / Single-Family Detached

RL - Low-Density Residential
RL-1

Single-Family Detached

10,000

85

110

35

35

8

35

RL-2

Single-Family Detached

8,000

70

110

35

30

7

35

RL-3

Single-Family Detached

7,000

55

110

35

30

6

35

Single-Family Detached

6,000

50

110

35

30

5

35

Single-Family Detached 10

5,000 9

50 9

100 9

35

25

5

35

Single-Family Attached / Bi-Attached 10

5,000 9

40 9

100 9

35

25

0 6/ 5

35

Duplex / Two-Family 10

5,000 9

40 9

100 9

35

25

0 6/ 5

35

Townhouse / Rowhouse 10

2,000 9

20 9

100 9

35

25

0 6/ 5

35

Mobile Home Park 7

3 AC

50

80

16

Townhouse / Rowhouse 10

2,000 9

20 9

100 9

45

25

0 6/ 5

35

Multiple-Family

12,500 3

--

--

45 12

30

10

30

RM - Medium-Density Residential
RM-1

RM-2

RM-3

See note 7 below.

RH - High-Density Residential

RH

PUD - Planned Unit Development
PUD

See lot and building standards above.

Mixed Housing Types

Accessory Structures

All

Accessory Dwelling Unit 13

--

--

--

--

--

--

--

Detached Garage

--

--

--

14

--

3

38

Detached Structure (non-dwelling)

--

--

--

12 11

--

3

3

Notes:
1. Minimum lot area and width are calculated on a "per unit" basis, with the exception of the RM-3 district.
2. There is no minimum lot area, width, or depth for permitted non-residential uses.
3. Multiple-family dwellings require a minimum of 12,500 square feet for the first three units, with an additional 1,500 square feet for each additional dwelling unit.
4. Churches and schools located within any RL or RM district may be a maximum height of 45 feet.
5. Permitted non-residential uses require a 35' setback from all property lines. (See Table 190.20.04-1, Residential Permitted Uses by District )
6. Zero feet is for the shared party wall between attached units (including single-family attached/bi-attached, duplex/two-family, and townhouse/rowhouse dwellings).
7. A mobile home park may only be approved by a special use permit. The minimum area required to establish a park is three acres. When adjacent to public rights-of-way or an R or PUD
district, the minimum setback is 50 feet, which is reduced to 30 feet when adjacent to an NC, CC, UP, MU, CI, BP, LI, OR HI district. A minimum 10-foot setback is required between mobile
homes and between any mobile home (and appurtenances) and a lot line. (See Ch. 192.10: RM-3, Mobile Home Park Residence District)
8. Detached garages that access an alley shall be set back either seven feet or a minimum of 18 feet from the alley right-of-way.
9. There is no minimum lot area, width, or depth for townhouse or rowhouse dwellings which do not have access from a public street, such as postage stamp lots. The maximum density in the
RM-2 district is 12 units/acre. The maximum density in the RH district is 24 units/acre.
10. A common outlot is required for postage stamp developments, which shall provide a 35-foot perimeter setback from all property lines. The minimum distance between separate dwelling
unit structures is 10 feet.
11. The height of accessory structures in the AG district may be a maximum of 14 feet; or 75 feet for agriculture-related accessory structures.
12. For each foot that the multiple-family building is set back beyond the required front, side and rear yards, one foot may be added to the height limit of such building or portion thereof. No
building, however, shall exceed 125 feet.
13. Accessory Dwelling Units shall comply with the height and setback requirements for principal structures for the Zoning District in which the property is located.

Page 74 of 146

Table 190.20.05-2
Non-Residential Lot and Building Standards
Minimum Lot
District

Housing/Building Type
Graphic Legend

Minimum Setbacks

Maximum Height

Area

Width

Depth

Feet

Front

Side

Rear

A

B

C

D

E

G

H

Mixed-Use
UP

Uptown

See note 6.

45

--

--

3

--

NMU

Neighborhood Mixed-Use

See note 6.

35

35

--

1

40 2

CMU

Community Mixed-Use

See note 6.

45

35

--

1

40 2

3

Commercial
NC

Neighborhood Commercial

--

--

--

35

35

--

1

40 2

CC

Community Commercial

--

--

--

45

35

--

1

40 2

BP

Business Park

--

--

--

75

50

--

4

40 5

LI

Light Industrial

--

--

--

75

50

--

4

40 5

HI

Heavy Industrial

--

--

--

75

50

--

4

40

Civic/Utility

--

--

--

--

50

50

50

Industrial

5

Civic/Utility
CU

PUD - Planned Unit Development
PUD

Planned Unit Development

See lot and building standards above.

Notes:
1. No minimum requirement, except when adjoining any R district, in which case 25 feet. Any side yard adjoining an R district shall be buffered by use of landscaping, walls, or fences to
effectively screen the commercial use from the adjoining R district.
2. Any rear yard adjoining an R district shall be buffered by use of landscaping, walls, or fences to effectively screen the commercial use from the adjoining R district.
3. No minimum requirement, except when adjoining any R district, in which case 10 feet.
4. No minimum requirement, except when adjoining any R district or street right-of-way line, in which case 50 feet.
5. Where a railroad right-of-way line lies immediately adjacent to the rear of a lot, the rear yard requirement need not apply.
6. No minimum requirement for non-residential uses. Residential uses are subject to the minimum lot area, width, and depth established in Table 190.20.04-2, Residential Lot and Building
Standards

Page 75 of 146

CHAPTER 193
ZONING ORDINANCE
FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS
193.01 FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS.
1. Statutory Authority. The Legislature of the State of Iowa has, in Chapter 414, Iowa Code, as amended, delegated the power to
cities to enact zoning regulations to secure safety from flood and to promote health and the general welfare.
2. Findings of Fact. The flood hazard areas of the City of Ankeny are subject to periodic inundation which can result in loss of
life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures
for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base all of which adversely affect the public health, safety and general
welfare of the community. These flood losses, hazards, and related adverse effects are caused by (i) the occupancy of flood hazard
areas by uses vulnerable to flood damages, which create hazardous conditions as a result of being inadequately elevated or otherwise
protected from flooding; and (ii) the cumulative effect of obstructions on the floodplain causing increases in flood heights and
velocities. This ordinance relies upon engineering methodology for analyzing flood hazards which is consistent with the standards
established by the Department of Natural Resources for analyzing flood hazards which is consistent with the standards established
by the Department of Natural Resources.
3. Purpose. It is the purpose of this Section to protect and preserve the rights, privileges and property of Ankeny, and its residents
and to preserve and improve the peace, safety, health, welfare, and comfort and convenience of its residents by minimizing flood
losses with provisions designed to:
A. Reserve sufficient floodplain area for the conveyance of flood flows so that flood heights and velocities will not be
increased substantially;
B. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety or property in times of flood or which cause excessive
increases in flood height or velocities;
C. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including public utilities which serve such uses, be protected against flood damage
at the time of initial construction;
D. Protect individuals from buying lands which are unsuited for intended purposes because of flood hazard; and
E. Assure that eligibility is maintained for property owners in the City to purchase flood insurance through the National Flood
Insurance Program.
4. Compliance. No structure or land shall hereafter be used, and no structure shall be located, extended, converted or structurally
altered without full compliance with the terms of this Ordinance and other applicable regulations which apply to uses within the
jurisdiction of this Ordinance.
5. Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection required by this Zoning Ordinance is considered reasonable
for regulatory purposes, and is based on engineering and scientific methods of study. Larger floods may occur on rare occasions.
Flood heights may be increased by manmade or natural causes, such as ice jams and bridge openings restricted by debris. The
ordinance codified in this Section does not imply that areas outside the floodplain districts or land uses permitted within such
districts will be free from flooding or flood damages. This Section shall not create liability on the part of Ankeny, or any officer or
employee thereof, for any flood damages that result from reliance on this Section, or any administrative decision lawfully made
thereunder.
6. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not intended by this Ordinance to repeal, abrogate or impair any existing easements,
covenants, or deed restrictions; however, where this Ordinance imposes greater restrictions, the provision of this Ordinance shall
prevail. All other ordinances inconsistent with this Ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of the inconsistency only.
7. Severability. If any section, clause, provision or portion of this Ordinance is adjudged unconstitutional or invalid by a court of
competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Ordinance shall not be affected thereby.
193.02 DEFINITIONS. The definitions found in Chapter 190 of this Zoning Ordinance apply to the provisions of this Chapter. The
following additional words, definitions, terms and phrases, when used in this Chapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this
Chapter, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:
1. “Appurtenant Structure” means a structure which is on the same parcel of the property as the principal structure to be insured
and the use of which is incidental to the use of the principal structure.
2. “Base Flood” means the flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. Also, commonly
referred to as "100-year flood."
47146
PagePage
76 of

3. “Base Flood Elevation (BFE)” means the elevation floodwaters would reach at a particular site during the occurrence of a base
flood event.
4. “Basement” means any enclosed area of a building which has its floor or lowest level below ground level (sub-grade) on all
sides. See also, "Lowest floor."
5. “Development” means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or
other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation, drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.
"Development" does not include "minor projects" or "routine maintenance of existing buildings and facilities," as defined in this
Section. It also does not include gardening, plowing, and similar practices that do not involve filling or grading.
6. “Enclosed Area Below Lowest Floor” means the floor of the lowest enclosed area in a building when all the following criteria
are met:
A. The enclosed area is designed to flood to equalize hydrostatic pressure during flood events with walls or openings that
satisfy the provisions of Chapter 193.05.2.B(4) of this Ordinance;
B. The enclosed area is unfinished (not carpeted, drywalled, etc.), and used solely for low damage potential uses such as
building access, parking or storage;
C. Machinery and service facilities (e.g., hot water heater, furnace, electrical service) contained in the enclosed area are
located at least one foot above the base flood elevation; and
D. The enclosed area is not a "basement," as defined in this Section.
7. “Existing Construction” means any structure for which the "start of construction" commenced before the effective date of the
first floodplain management regulations adopted by the community.
8. “Existing Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision” means a factory-built home park or subdivision for which the construction
of facilities for servicing the lots on which the factory-built homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of
utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before the effective
date of the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the community.
9. “Expansion of Existing Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision” means the preparation of additional sites by the construction
of facilities for servicing the lots on which the factory-built homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of
utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads).
10. “Factory-Built Home” means any structure designed for residential use, which is wholly or in substantial part, made, fabricated,
formed, or assembled in manufacturing facilities for installation or assembly and installation, on a building site. For the purpose of
this Zoning Ordinance, factory-built homes include mobile homes, manufactured homes, and modular homes; and also include
"recreational vehicles," which are placed on a site for greater than 180 consecutive days, and not fully licensed for and ready for
highway use.
11. “Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision” means a parcel or contiguous parcels of land divided into two or more factory-built
home lots for rent or sale.
12. “Five-Hundred (500) Year Flood” means a flood, the magnitude of which has a two-tenths (0.2) percent chance of being
equaled or exceeded in any given year, or which, on average, will be equaled or exceeded at least once every 500 years.
13. “Flood” means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas, resulting from
the overflow of streams or rivers or from the unusual and rapid runoff of surface waters from any source.
14. “Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)” means the official map prepared as part of (but published separately from) the Flood
Insurance Study, which delineates both the flood hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.
15. “Flood Insurance Study (FIS)” means a report published by FEMA for a community, issued along with the community's Flood
Insurance Rate Map(s). The study contains such background data as the base flood discharge and water surface elevations that were
used to prepare the FIRM.
16. “Floodplain” means any land area susceptible to being inundated by water as a result of a flood.
17. “Floodplain Management” means an overall program of corrective and preventive measures for reducing flood damages and
promoting the wise use of floodplains, including, but not limited to, emergency preparedness plans, flood control works,
floodproofing and floodplain management regulations.
18. “Floodproofing” means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes, or adjustments to structures,
including utility and sanitary facilities, which will reduce or eliminate flood damage to such structures.
19. “Floodway” means the channel of a river or stream, and those portions of the floodplains adjoining the channel, which are
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reasonably required to carry and discharge flood waters or flood flows so that confinement of flood flows to the floodway area will
not cumulatively increase the water surface elevation of the base flood by more than one foot.
20. “Floodway Fringe” means those portions of the Special Flood Hazard Area outside the floodway.
21. “Highest Adjacent Grade” means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to construction next to the proposed
walls of a structure.
22. “Historic Structure” means any structure that is:
A. Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places, maintained by the Department of Interior, or preliminarily
determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing of the National Register;
B. Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a
registered historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district;
C. Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic preservation programs, which have been
approved by the Secretary of the Interior; or
D. Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities with historic preservation programs that have
been certified by either (i) an approved state program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior; or (ii) directly by the
Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs.
E. “Lowest Floor” means the floor of the lowest enclosed area in a building, including a "basement," as defined in this Section,
except when the criteria listed in the definition of "Enclosed Area Below Lowest Floor" are met.
23. “Maximum Damage Potential Development” means hospitals and like institutions; buildings or building complexes containing
documents, data, or instruments of great public value; buildings or building complexes containing materials dangerous to the public
or fuel storage facilities; power installations needed in emergency or other buildings or building complexes similar in nature or use
24. “Minor Projects” means small development activities (except for filling, grading and excavating) valued at less than $500.
25. “New Construction (New Buildings, Factory-Built Home Parks)” means those structures or development for which the start of
construction commenced on or after the effective date of the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the community.
26. “New Factory-Built Home Park or Subdivision” means a factory-built home park or subdivision for which the construction of
facilities for servicing the lots on which the factory-built homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of
utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after the effective
date of the effective date of the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the community.
27. “Recreational Vehicle” means a vehicle which is built on a single chassis; 400 square feet or less when measured at the largest
horizontal projection; designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck; and designed primarily not for
use as a permanent dwelling but as a temporary living quarters for recreational camping, travel, or seasonal use.
28. “Routine Maintenance of Existing Buildings and Facilities” means repairs necessary to keep a structure in a safe and habitable
condition that do not trigger a building permit, provided they are not associated with a general improvement of the structure or
repair of a damaged structure. Such repairs include:
A. Normal maintenance of structures such as re-roofing, replacing roofing tiles and replacing siding;
B. Exterior and interior painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work;
C. Basement sealing;
D. Repairing or replacing damaged or broken window panes; or
E. Repairing plumbing systems, electrical systems, heating or air conditioning systems and repairing wells or septic systems.
29. “Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)” means the land within a community subject to the "base flood," as defined in this Section.
This land is identified on the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map as Zone A, A1-30, AE, AH, AO, AR, and/or A99.
30. “Start of Construction” includes substantial improvement, and means the date the development permit was issued, provided
the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other improvement, was within 180
days of the permit date. The actual start means either (i) the first placement or permanent construction of a structure on a site, such
as pouring of a slab or footings, the installation of pile, the construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation;
or (ii) the placement of a factory-built home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as
clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a
basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of
accessory structures such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial
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improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of the
building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
31. “Structure” means anything constructed or erected on the ground or attached to the ground, including, but not limited to,
buildings, factories, sheds, cabins, factory-built homes, storage tanks, grain storage facilities, and other similar uses.
32. “Substantial Damage” means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its
before- damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
Volunteer labor and donated materials shall be included in the estimated cost of repair.
33. “Substantial Improvement” means any improvement to a structure which satisfies either of the following criteria:
A. Any repair, reconstruction, or other improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the
market value of the structure either (i) before the "start of construction" of the improvement; or (ii) if the structure has been
"substantially damaged" and is being restored, before the damage occurred. This term includes structures which have incurred
substantial damage regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either (i) any project
for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of State or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications
which have been identified by the local code enforcement officer, and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living
conditions; or (ii) any alteration that will not preclude the structure's continued designation as an historic structure.
B. Any addition which increases the original floor area of a building by 25 percent or more. All additions constructed on or
after the first floodplain management regulations adopted by the City shall be added to any proposed addition in determining
whether the total increase in original floor space would exceed 25 percent.
34. “Variance” means a grant of relief by a community from the terms of the floodplain management regulations.
35. “Violation” means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the community's floodplain
management regulations.
193.03 FLOODPLAIN OVERLAY ZONE ESTABLISHED. The Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) for Polk County and
Incorporated Areas, City of Ankeny, Panels 19153C0045F, 0065F, 0070F, 0185F, 0205F, 0210F, 0215F, 0220F, dated February 1,
2019, were prepared as part of the Polk County Flood Insurance Study are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be the Official
Floodplain Zoning Map. The Polk County Flood Insurance Study is hereby adopted by reference and is made a part of this ordinance
for the purpose of administering floodplain management regulations. The Floodplain Zoning Map shall be used to identify flood hazard
areas, and all areas shown thereon to be within the boundaries of the 100-year flood. The precise location of the 100-year flood boundary
and the location at a particular site in question shall be determined by scaling distances on the official floodplain zoning map. Where
interpretation is needed as to the exact location of the boundaries of the district as shown on the official zoning map, the Floodplain
Manager shall make the necessary interpretation. The person contesting the location of the district boundary shall be given a reasonable
opportunity to present their case and submit technical evidence. Where the 100-year flood elevation is locally calculated by a registered
engineer and delineated upon a preliminary and/or final plat drawing, this line shall be used to delineate the floodplain boundary and
the hydrological data used shall be retained on file in the City Engineer's office.
193.04 FLOODPLAIN SUBDISTRICTS ESTABLISHED. The floodplain areas within the jurisdiction of this Ordinance are
divided into the following subdistricts:
1. Floodway (Overlay) Subdistrict (FW). The floodway subdistrict shall be consistent with the boundaries of the floodway as
shown on the Official Floodplain Zoning Map.
2. Floodway Fringe (Overlay) Subdistrict (FF). The floodway fringe subdistrict shall be those areas identified as Zone AE on the
Official Floodplain Zoning Map, but excluding those areas identified as Floodway.
3. General Floodplain (Overlay) Subdistrict (GF). The general floodplain subdistrict shall be those areas identified as Zone A on
the Official Floodplain Zoning Map.
193.05 FLOODPLAIN SUBDISTRICT REGULATIONS. Uses within the floodplain overlay zone shall be restricted in accordance
with the following subdistrict regulations:
1.

Floodway (Overlay) Subdistrict (FW).
A. Permitted Uses. All development within the Floodway District shall be permitted to the extent that they are not prohibited
by any other ordinance (or underlying zoning district), and provided they meet applicable performance standards of the
Floodway District.
B. Performance Standards. All floodway subdistrict development allowed as a permitted or conditional use shall meet the
following standards:
(1) No development shall be permitted in the floodway subdistrict that would result in any increase in the base flood
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elevation. Consideration of the effects of any development on flood levels shall be based upon the assumption that an equal
degree of development would be allowed for similarly situated lands.
(2) All development within the floodway subdistrict shall (i) be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage; (ii)
use construction methods and practices that will minimize flood damage; and (iii) use construction materials and utility
equipment that are resistant to flood damage.
(3) No development shall affect the capacity or conveyance of the channel or floodway or any tributary to the main stream,
drainage ditch, or any other drainage facility or system.
(4) Structures, buildings, recreational vehicles, and sanitary and utility systems, if permitted, shall meet the applicable
performance standards of the floodway fringe subdistrict, and shall be constructed or aligned to present the minimum
possible resistance to flood flows.
(5) Structures, if permitted, shall have a low flood damage potential and shall not be for human habitation.
(6) Storage of equipment or materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive, or injurious to human, animal or plant life
is prohibited. Storage of other material may be allowed if readily removable from the floodway subdistrict within the time
available after flood warning.
(7) Watercourse alterations or relocations (channel changes and modifications) must be designed to maintain the flood
carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion. In addition, such alterations or relocations must be approved by
the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
(8) Any fill allowed in the floodway must be shown to have some beneficial purpose and shall be limited to the minimum
amount necessary.
(9) Pipeline river or stream crossings shall be buried in the streambed and banks or otherwise sufficiently protected to
prevent rupture due to channel degradation and meandering or due to the action of flood flows.
2.

Floodway Fringe (Overlay) Subdistrict (FF).
A. Permitted Uses. All development within the floodway fringe subdistrict shall be permitted to the extent that they are not
prohibited by any other ordinance or underlying zoning district, and provided they meet applicable performance standards of
the floodway fringe subdistrict.
B. Performance Standards. All development must be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage and meet the
following applicable performance standards. Until a regulatory floodway is designated, no development may increase the Base
Flood Elevation more than one (1) foot. Where 100-year flood data has not been provided on the Flood Insurance Rate Map,
the Iowa Department of Natural Resources shall be contacted to compute such data. The applicant will be responsible for
providing the Department of Natural Resources with sufficient technical information to make such determination.
(1) All development shall (i) be designed and adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of
the structure; (ii) be constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage; and (iii) be constructed by
methods and practices that minimize flood damage.
(2) Residential structures - All new or substantially improved residential structures shall have the lowest floor, including
basements, elevated a minimum of one foot above the base flood elevation. Construction shall be upon compacted fill
which shall, at all points, be no lower than one foot above the base flood elevation, and extend at such elevation at least
18 feet beyond the limits of any structure erected thereon. Alternate methods of elevating (such as piers or extended
foundations) may be allowed, subject to favorable consideration by the Board of Adjustment and issuance of a conditional
use permit, where existing topography, street grades, or other factors preclude elevating by fill. In such cases, the methods
used must be adequate to support the structure, as well as withstand the various forces and hazards associated with flooding.
All new residential structures located in areas that would become isolated due to flooding of surrounding ground shall be
provided with a means of access that will be passable by wheeled vehicles during the base flood; however, this criterion
shall not apply where the Administrator determines there is sufficient flood warning time for the protection of life and
property. When estimating flood warning time, consideration shall be given to the criteria listed in 567-75.2(3), Iowa
Administrative Code.
(3) Nonresidential structures - All new or substantially improved nonresidential structures shall have the lowest floor
(including basement) elevated a minimum of one foot above the base flood elevation, or together with attendant utility and
sanitary systems, be floodproofed to such a level. When floodproofing is utilized, a professional engineer registered in the
state of Iowa shall certify that the floodproofing methods used are adequate to withstand the flood depths, pressures,
velocities, impact and uplift forces, and other factors associated with the base flood; and that the structure, below the base
flood elevation, is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water. A record of the certification
indicating the specific elevation (in relation to North American Vertical Datum 1988) to which any structures are
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floodproofed shall be maintained by the Floodplain Manager.
(4) In all new and substantially improved structures, fully enclosed areas below the "lowest floor" (not including
basements) that are subject to flooding shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior
walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a
registered professional engineer or meet or exceed the following minimum criteria: (i) A minimum of two openings having
a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided;
(ii) The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade; and (iii) Openings may be equipped with
screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
Such areas shall be used solely for parking of vehicles, building access and low damage potential storage.
(5) New and substantially improved structures must be designed (or modified) and adequately anchored to prevent
flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the
effects of buoyancy.
(6) New and substantially improved structures must be constructed with electric meter, electrical service panel box, water
heater, heating, air conditioning ventilation equipment (including ductwork), and other similar machinery and equipment
elevated (or in the case of nonresidential structures, optionally floodproofed) to a minimum of one foot above the base
flood elevation.
(7) New and substantially improved structures shall be constructed with plumbing, gas lines, water/gas meters and other
similar service utilities either elevated (or in the case of nonresidential structures, optionally floodproofed) a minimum of
one (1) foot above the base flood elevation or designed to be watertight and withstand inundation to such a level.
(8) All new and substantially improved factory-built homes, including those placed in existing factory-built home parks
or subdivisions, shall be anchored to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. Methods of anchoring may include,
but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground anchors, as required by the State Building Code.
(9) All new and substantially improved factory-built homes, including those placed in existing factory-built home parks
or subdivisions, shall be elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest floor of the structure is a minimum of
one foot above the base flood elevation.
(10) All new and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize and eliminate infiltration of
floodwaters into the system, as well as the discharge of effluent into floodwaters. Wastewater treatment facilities (other
than on-site systems) shall be provided with a level of flood protection equal to or greater than one foot above the base
flood elevation.
(11) On-site waste disposal and water supply systems shall be located or designed to avoid impairment to the system or
contamination from the system during flooding.
(12) New or replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into
the system. Water supply treatment facilities (other than on-site systems) shall be provided with a level of protection equal
to or greater than one foot above the base flood elevation.
(13) Utilities such as gas or electrical systems shall be located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage to
the system and the risk associated with such flood damaged or impaired systems.
(14) Storage of materials and/or equipment that are flammable, explosive, or injurious to human, animal or plant life is
prohibited unless elevated a minimum of one foot above the base flood elevation. Other material and equipment shall either
be similarly elevated or (i) not be subject to major flood damage and be anchored to prevent movement due to floodwaters;
or (ii) be readily removable from the area within the time available after flood warning.
(15) Flood control structural works such as levees, flood walls, etc. shall provide, at a minimum, protection from the base
flood with a minimum of three feet of design freeboard, and shall provide for adequate interior drainage. In addition,
structural flood control works shall be approved by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.
(16) No development shall affect the capacity or conveyance of the channel or floodway of any tributary to the main stream,
drainage ditch, or other drainage facility or system.
(17) Watercourse alterations or relocations must be designed to maintain the flood carrying capacity within the altered or
relocated portion. In addition, the Department of Natural Resources must approve such alterations or relocations.
(18) Subdivisions (including factory-built home parks and subdivisions) shall be consistent with the need to minimize flood
damages and shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood damage. Development associated with
subdivision proposals (including the installation of public utilities) shall meet the applicable performance standards.
Subdivision proposals intended for residential use shall provide all lots with a means of access which will be passable by
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wheeled vehicles during the base flood. Proposals for subdivisions greater than five acres or 50 lots (whichever is less)
shall include base flood elevation data for those areas located within the Floodway Fringe (Overlay) subdistrict.
(19) The exemption of detached garages, sheds, and similar structures from the base flood elevation requirements may
result in increased premium rates for insurance coverage of the structure and contents; however, such detached garages,
sheds, and similar accessory type structures are exempt from the base flood elevation requirements when (i) its size shall
not exceed 600 sq. ft.; (ii) those portions of the structure located less than 1-foot above BFE must be constructed of floodresistant materials; (iii) the structure shall not be used for human habitation; (iv) the structure shall be designed to have
low flood damage potential and be used solely for low flood damage potential purposes such as vehicle parking and limited
storage; (v) the structure shall be constructed and placed on the building site so as to offer minimum resistance to the flow
of floodwaters; (vi) structures shall be firmly anchored to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement; (vii) the
structure's service facilities such as electrical and heating equipment shall be elevated or floodproofed to at least one foot
above the base flood elevation; and (viii) the structure's walls shall include openings that satisfy the provisions of Chapter
193.05.2.B(4) of this Ordinance.
(20) Recreational vehicles are exempt from the requirements of Chapter 193.05.2.B(8-9) of this Ordinance regarding
anchoring and elevation of factory-built homes when the following criteria are satisfied: (i) The recreational vehicle shall
be located on the site for less than 180 consecutive days; and (ii) The recreational vehicle must be fully licensed and ready
for highway use. A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking system and is attached
to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices and has no permanently attached additions.
Recreational vehicles that are located on the site for more than 180 consecutive days or are not ready for highway use
must satisfy requirements of Chapter 193.05.2.B(8-9) of this Ordinance regarding anchoring and elevation of factory-built
homes.
(21) Pipeline river and stream crossings shall be buried in the streambed and banks, or otherwise sufficiently protected to
prevent rupture due to channel degradation and meandering.
(22) All new or substantially improved maximum damage potential development shall have the lowest floor (including
basement) elevated a minimum of one (1) foot above the elevation of the 500-year flood, or together with attendant utility
and sanitary systems, be floodproofed to such a level. When floodproofing is utilized, a professional engineer registered
in the State of Iowa shall certify that the floodproofing methods used are adequate to withstand the flood depths, pressures,
velocities, impact and uplift forces and other factors associated with the 0.2% annual chance flood; and that the structure,
below the 0.2% annual chance flood elevation is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water.
A record of the certification indicating the specific elevation (in relation to the North American Vertical Datum, 1988) to
which any structures are floodproofed shall be maintained by the Administrator. Where the 0.2% annual flood elevation
data has not been provided in the Flood Insurance Study, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources shall be constructed
to compute such data. The applicant will be responsible for providing the Department of Natural Resources with sufficient
technical information to make such determinations.
3.

General Floodplain (Overlay) Subdistrict (FP).
A. Permitted Uses. The following development shall be permitted within the general floodplain subdistrict to the extent they
are not prohibited by any other ordinance or underlying zoning district; and provided they meet the applicable performance
standards of the General Floodplain District.
B. Any development which involve placement of structures, factory-built homes, fill or other obstructions, storage of
materials and/or equipment, excavation or alteration of a watercourse may be allowed only upon issuance of a conditional use
permit by the Board of Adjustment, as provided for in Chapter 193.07.3 of this Ordinance. All such development shall be
reviewed by the Department of Natural Resources to determine (i) whether the land involved is either wholly or partly within
the floodway or floodway fringe and (ii) the base flood elevation. The applicant shall be responsible for providing the
Department of Natural Resources with sufficient technical information to make the determination.
C. Review by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is not required for the proposed construction of new or replacement
bridges or culverts where (i) the bridge or culvert is located on a stream that drains less than 2 square miles; and (ii) the bridge
or culvert is not associated with a channel modification that constitutes a channel change as specified in 567-71.2(2), Iowa
Administrative Code.
D. Performance Standards.
(1) All development, or portions thereof, to be located in the floodway as determined by the Iowa Department of Natural
Resources shall meet the applicable provisions and standards of the floodway (overlay) subdistrict.
(2) All development, or portions thereof, to be located in the floodway fringe as determined by the Iowa Department of
Natural Resources shall meet the applicable standards of the floodway fringe (overlay) subdistrict.
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193.06 FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT.
1. Permit Required. A floodplain development permit issued by the Floodplain Manager shall be secured prior to initiation of any
floodplain development (any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or
other structures, mining, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations) including the placement of factory-built homes.
2. Application for Permit. Application for a floodplain development permit shall be made on forms supplied by the Floodplain
Manager and shall include the following information:
A. Description of the work to be covered by the permit for which application is to be made;
B. Description of the land on which the proposed work is to be done (i.e., lot, block, tract, street address or similar description)
that will readily identify and locate the work to be done;
C. Location and dimensions of all buildings and building alterations;
D. Identification of the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended;
E. Elevation of the base flood;
F. Elevation (in relation to North American Vertical Datum 1988) of the lowest floor (including basement) of structures, or
of the level to which a structure is to be floodproofed;
G. For structures being improved or rebuilt, the estimated cost of improvements and market value of the building prior to the
improvements; and
H. Such other information as the Floodplain Manager deems reasonably necessary for the purpose of this Ordinance.
3. Action on Permit Application. The Floodplain Manager shall, within a reasonable time, make a determination as to whether
the proposed floodplain development meets the applicable provisions and standards of this Zoning Ordinance, and shall approve or
disapprove the application. For disapprovals, the applicant shall be informed, in writing, of the specific reasons therefor. The
Floodplain Manager shall not issue permits for conditional uses or variances except as directed by the Board of Adjustment.
4. Construction and Use to be as Provided in Application and Plans. Floodplain development permits issued on the basis of
approved plans and applications authorize only the use, arrangement, and construction set forth in such approved plans and
applications and no other use, arrangement, or construction. Any use, arrangement, or construction at variance with that authorized
shall be deemed a violation of this Section and shall be punishable as provided in Chapter 193.07.10 of this Ordinance. The applicant
shall be required to submit certification by a professional engineer or land surveyor (as appropriate) registered in the State of Iowa,
that the finished fill, building floor elevations, floodproofing, or other flood protection measures were accomplished in compliance
with the provisions of this Section, prior to the use or occupancy of any structure.
193.07 ADMINISTRATION.
1. Duties and responsibilities. The Floodplain Manager is hereby appointed to implement and administer the provisions of this
Ordinance and will herein be referred to as the Administrator.
2.

Duties and responsibilities of the Administrator shall include, but not necessarily be limited to the following:
A. Review all floodplain development permit applications to assure that the provisions of this Ordinance will be satisfied.
B. Review floodplain development applications to assure that all necessary permits have been obtained from federal, state
and local governmental agencies including approval when required from the Department of Natural Resources for floodplain
construction.
C. Record and maintain a record of (i) the elevation (in relation to North American Vertical Datum 1988) of the lowest floor
(including basement) of all new or substantially improved structures, or (ii) the elevation to which new or substantially
improved structures have been floodproofed.
D. Notify adjacent communities/counties and the Department of Natural Resources prior to any proposed alteration or
relocation of a watercourse, and submit evidence of such notifications to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
E. Keep a record of all permits, appeals and such other transactions and correspondence pertaining to the administration of
this Ordinance.
F. Submit to the Federal Insurance Administrator an annual report concerning the community's participation, utilizing the
annual report form supplied by the Federal Insurance Administrator.
G. Notify the Federal Insurance Administration of any annexations or modifications to the community's boundaries.
H. Maintain the accuracy of the community's Flood Insurance Rate Maps when:
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(1) Development placed within the Floodway (Overlay) subdistrict results in (i) an increase in the Base Flood Elevations,
or (ii) alteration to the floodway boundary.
(2) Development placed in Zones A, AE, AH, and A1-30 that does not include a designated floodway that will cause a
rise of more than one foot in the base elevation; or
(3) Development relocates or alters the channel.
I. Within 6 months of the completion of the development, the applicant shall submit to FEMA all scientific and technical
data necessary for a Letter of Map Revision.
J.

Perform site inspections to ensure compliance with the standards of this Ordinance.

3. Conditional Uses. Requests for conditional uses shall be submitted to the Floodplain Manager who shall forward such to the
Board of Adjustment for consideration. Such requests shall include information ordinarily submitted with applications as well as
any additional information deemed necessary to the Board of Adjustment.
4. Appeals. Where it is alleged there is any error in any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by an administrative
official in the enforcement of this Section, the aggrieved party may appeal such action. The notice of appeal shall be filed with the
Board of Adjustment and with the official from whom the appeal is taken, and shall set forth the specific reason for the appeal. The
official from whom the appeal is taken shall transmit to the Board of Adjustment all the papers constituting the record upon which
the action appealed from was taken.
5. Variances. The Board of Adjustment may authorize, upon request in specific cases, such variances from the terms of this
Section that will not be contrary to the public interest where, owing to special conditions, a literal enforcement of the provisions of
this Section will result in unnecessary hardship. Variances granted must meet the following applicable standards:
A. No variance shall be granted for any development within any designated floodway which would result in any increase in
the base flood elevation. Consideration of the effects of any development on flood levels shall be based upon the assumption
that an equal degree of development would be allowed for similarly situated lands.
B. Variances shall only be granted upon:
(1) A showing of good and sufficient cause;
(2) A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship to the applicant;
(3) A determination that the granting of the variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public
safety or extraordinary public expense; create nuisances, or cause fraud on or victimization of the public; and
(4) A determination that the variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
C. In cases where the variance involves a lower level of flood protection for buildings than what is ordinarily required by this
Zoning Ordinance, the applicant shall be notified in writing over the signature of the Floodplain Manager that:
(1) The issuance of a variance will result in increased premium rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as 25
dollars for 100 dollars of insurance coverage; and
(2) Such construction increases risks to life and property.
D. All variances granted shall have the concurrence or approval of the Department of Natural Resources.
6. Hearings. Upon the filing with the Board of Adjustment of an appeal, an application for a conditional use or a request for a
variance, the board shall hold a public hearing. The Board shall fix a reasonable time for the hearing and give public notice thereof,
as well as due notice to parties in interest. At the hearing, any party may appear in person or by agent or attorney, and present
written or oral evidence. The Board may require the appellant or applicant to provide such information as is reasonably deemed
necessary, and may request the technical assistance and/or evaluation of a professional engineer or other expert person or agency,
including the Department of Natural Resources.
7. Decisions. The Board shall arrive at a decision on an appeal, conditional use, or variance within a reasonable time. In passing
upon an appeal, the Board may, so long as such action is in conformity with the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance, reverse or
affirm, wholly or in part, or modify the order, requirement, decision, or determination appealed from; and it shall make its decision
in writing, setting forth the findings of fact and the reasons for its decision. In granting a conditional use or variance, the Board shall
consider such factors as contained in this Section and all other relevant sections of this Zoning Ordinance, and may prescribe such
conditions as contained in Chapter 193.07.9.
8. Factors Upon Which the Decision of the Board Shall Be Based. In passing upon applications for conditional uses or requests
for variances, the Board shall consider all relevant factors specified in other sections of this Zoning Ordinance and:
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A. The danger to life and property due to increased flood heights or velocities caused by encroachments;
B. The danger that materials may be swept on to other lands or downstream to the injury of others;
C. The proposed water supply and sanitation systems and the ability of these systems to prevent disease, contamination and
unsanitary conditions;
D. The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage, and the effect of such damage on the individual
owner;
E. The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the community;
F.

The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the community;

G. The availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding for the proposed use;
H. The compatibility of the proposed use with existing development and development anticipated in the foreseeable future;
I.

The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain management program for the area;

J.

The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles;

K. The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the flood water expected at the site;
L. The cost of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public
utilities (sewer, gas, electrical and water systems), facilities, streets and bridges; and
M. Such other factors which are relevant to the purpose of this Zoning Ordinance.
9. Conditions Attached to Conditional Uses or Variances. Upon consideration of the factors listed above, the Board may attach
such conditions to the granting of conditional uses or variances as it deems necessary to further the purpose of this Zoning
Ordinance. Such conditions may include, but not necessarily be limited to:
A. Modification of waste disposal and water supply facilities;
B. Limitation on periods of use and operation;
C. Imposition of operational controls, sureties, and deed restrictions;
D. Requirements of channel modification, dikes, levees, and other protective measures, provided such are approved by the
Department of Natural Resources and are deemed the only practical alternative to achieving the purposes of this Zoning
Ordinance; or
E. Floodproofing Measures. Floodproofing measures shall be designed consistent with the flood protection elevation for the
particular area, flood velocities, durations, rate of rise, hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces, and other factors associated with
the regulatory flood. The Board of Adjustment shall require that the applicant submit a plan or document certified by a
registered professional engineer that the floodproofing measures are consistent with the regulatory flood protection elevation
and associated flood factors for the particular area.
10. Penalties for Violation. Violations of the provisions of this Ordinance or failure to comply with any of the requirements
(including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with grants of variances) shall be considered a
municipal infraction punishable by civil penalty provided in Chapter 4 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
11. Amendments. The regulations and standards set forth in this Ordinance may from time to time be amended, supplemented,
changed, or repealed. No amendment, supplement, change, or modification shall be undertaken without prior approval of the
Department of Natural Resources.

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CHAPTER 194
ZONING ORDINANCE
PARKING, LOADING AND SCREENING
194.01 OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING.
1.

Number of Parking Spaces Required.
A. All developments in all zoning districts other than the UP District shall provide a sufficient number of off-street parking
spaces to accommodate the number of vehicles that ordinarily are likely to be attracted to the development in question.
B. The presumptions established by this Section are that: (i) a development must comply with the parking standards set forth
in Paragraph F of this Section to satisfy the requirement stated in Paragraph A; and (ii) any development that does meet these
standards is in compliance. However, the table of parking requirements is only intended to establish a presumption and should
be flexibly administered as provided in Subsection 2.
C. In determining the number of parking spaces required by the table of parking requirements, if a fractional space results,
any fraction less than one-half may be disregarded while fractions in excess of one-half shall be counted as one parking space.
D. For developments containing multiple uses, with the exception of multi-tenant commercial centers, which will provide
parking in accordance with Paragraph F, each use shall be calculated independently from one another.
E. The City Council recognizes that the table of parking requirements set forth in Paragraph F of this Section cannot and does
not cover every possible situation that may arise. Therefore, in cases not specifically covered, the Department Director is
authorized to determine the parking requirements using this table and a similar use as a guide.
F.

2.

Table of Parking Requirements. See Table 194.01, Off-Street Parking Requirements.

Flexibility in Administration.
A. The Council recognizes that, due to particularities of any given development, the inflexible application of the parking
standards set forth in Paragraph F of Subsection 1 may result in a development either with inadequate parking space or parking
space far in excess of its needs. The former situation may lead to traffic congestion or parking violations in adjacent streets as
well as unauthorized parking in nearby private lots. The latter situation wastes money as well as space that could more desirably
be used for valuable development or environmentally useful open space. Therefore, the Department Director may permit
deviations from the presumptive requirements of Paragraph F of Subsection 1 and may require more parking or allow less
parking whenever such deviations are more likely to satisfy the standard set forth in Paragraph A of Subsection 1 of this Section.
Such deviations granted by the Department Director shall not exceed more than 10% of the required parking spaces.
B. Whenever the Department Director is considering a deviation to the parking standards set forth in Paragraph F of
Subsection 1, the Director may require additional information from the developer/property owner to provide justification for
the deviation. Such additional information may include anticipated parking demands, peak parking times, parking history from
other, similar situations.

3. Off-Street Display and Storage Areas. In all districts in connection with every industrial, commercial, business, trade,
institutional, recreational, or dwelling use, and similar uses, space for the storage and/or display area of vehicles and equipment
when required and/or provided shall have driveways and access drives permanently surfaced with an asphaltic or Portland cement
binder pavement.
4. Off-Street Parking – Requirements Generally. Every parcel of land used as a public or private parking area after the effective
date of the Zoning Ordinance shall be developed and maintained in accordance with the following requirements:
A. No part of any parking area shall be closer than five feet to any established street or alley right-of-way or property line.
Parking areas may encroach the parking setback when immediately adjacent to another parking area. In case the parking area
adjoins any R district or use, it shall be effectively screened in accordance with the standard for an opaque screen, type “C” as
described in Chapter 194.02. In case the parking area adjoins a street right-of-way or is located within a front yard it shall be
effectively screened through the use of earthen berms and/or landscaping to a height of thirty inches.
B. All parking spaces, driveways and access drives shall be surfaced with an asphaltic or Portland cement binder pavement,
or such other surfaces as shall be approved by the Department Director, so as to provide durable and dustless surface; shall be
so graded and drained as to dispose of all surface water accumulations within the area; and shall be so arranged and marked as
to provide for orderly and safe loading or unloading and parking and storage of self-propelled vehicles. Alternate surface
materials, such as crushed Portland cement concrete or crushed asphalt cement concrete, may be used for parking, drive aisles,
and circulation areas associated with active farming operations, which do not have the appearance or scale of a commercial or
industrial farming operation, on properties zoned AG with the condition that the drive approach within the public right of way
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and the first 20 feet of driveway on the property were constructed to meet the initial hard surfacing requirement. All surface
materials shall be maintained such that the driving and parking surfaces are fully covered with the approved surface material
and do not create any dust or hazardous conditions. The portion of a driveway within public right-of-way shall be hard surfaced
to city standards.
C. Any lighting used to illuminate any parking area shall be so arranged to prevent any light spill onto adjoining properties
in any AG, R or MU Districts or onto any residential uses and minimizing light spill on all other properties.
D. Parking Area Layout Criteria. Parking areas are encouraged to be located in side and rear yards. Parking areas shall be
designed to accommodate traffic volumes and consideration should be given to pedestrian circulation through the parking area.
The use of islands, medians, and curbing is encouraged to delineate parking spaces from traffic and pedestrian circulation areas.
Where the code specifies parking space that space size shall be determined in accordance with the layout criteria and the table
of standard dimensions. Stalls for persons with disabilities shall be provided as required by Iowa Code. The spaces shall be
delineated to define their boundaries exclusive of driveways, except for one- and two-family dwelling units, and shall be shown
as a part of the parking lot plan on the site plan drawing. The schedule of standard parking stall dimensions shall be in general
conformance with Exhibits A and B set out following this Section.
E. Parking Area Landscaping. All parking spaces, driveways, and access drives shall be required to provide natural shading,

through the use of deciduous trees, in an amount equal to twenty percent of the parking area. Trees used for this purpose shall
be overstory shade trees and will be presumed to shade a circular area having a radius of fifteen feet. New and existing trees
should be protected from damage by vehicles and surrounded by an appropriate amount of open space.

EXHIBIT “A”
SCHEDULE OF STANDARD DIMENSIONS

PARALLEL PARKING
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EXHIBIT “B”
SCHEDULE OF STANDARD DIMENSIONS

5. Off-Street Loading – Spaces Required. In any district in connection with every building or part thereof erected after the effective
date of the Zoning Ordinance, which is to be occupied by any use that requires the receipt or distribution by vehicles of material or
merchandise, all loading and unloading shall occur on-site. As such, there shall be provided and maintained at least one off-street
loading space located on the same lot with such building.

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194.02 SCREENING. The intent of screening regulations is to lessen the transmission from one lot to another of noise, dust, and glare;
to lessen visual pollution by providing an impression of separation of spaces or entirely shielding one land use from another; and/or
establishing a sense of privacy from visual or physical intrusion. The provisions of this Section are necessary to safeguard the public
health, safety, and welfare.
1. General Screening Standard. Every development shall provide sufficient screening so that neighboring properties are shielded
from any adverse external effects of that development; and the development is shielded from the negative impacts of adjacent uses
including streets and railroads.
2.

Compliance with General Standard.
A. The following table, in conjunction with the explanations set forth in Subsection 3 concerning types of screens, establishes
screening requirements that presumptively satisfy the general standard established in Subsection 1 of this Section.
Table 194.02
Screening Requirements

Use

AG RL-1 RL-2 RL-3 RM-1 RM-2 RM-3 RH

UP NMU CMU NC

CC

BP

LI

HI

CU

PUD

AG

-

-

-

-

-

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RL-1

-

-

-

-

-

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RL-2

-

-

-

-

-

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RL-3

-

-

-

-

-

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RM-1

-

-

-

-

-

A

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RM-2

A

A

A

A

A

-

A

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RM-3

A

A

A

A

A

A

-

A

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

RH

A

A

A

A

A

A

A

-

B

B

B

B

B

B

C

C

C

*

UP

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

-

A

A

A

A

A

C

C

C

*

NMU

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

A

-

A

A

A

A

C

C

C

*

CMU

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

A

A

-

A

A

A

C

C

C

*

NC

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

A

A

A

-

A

A

C

C

C

*

CC

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

A

A

A

A

-

A

C

C

C

*

BP

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

B

A

A

A

A

A

-

C

C

C

*

LI

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

-

B

B

*

HI

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

B

-

B

*

CU

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

C

B

B

-

*

PUD

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

-

* Screening to be approved with PUD Approval.

B. The zoning classifications contained in Paragraph A of this Subsection, Table of Screening Requirements, are keyed to
those classifications described in Chapter 192 of this Zoning Ordinance. The letter designations within the table refer to the
types of screening described in Subsection 3 of this Section. The table indicates the type of screening that is presumptively
required between two uses. Where such screening is required the applicant or burdened/heavier use is responsible for
installation prior to receiving an occupancy permit for the use in question.
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3. Descriptions of Screens. The following three basic types of screens are established and are used as the basis for the table of
screening requirements set forth in Table 194.02.
A. Broken Screen, Type ‘A’ – a screen composed of intermittent visual obstructions from the ground to a height of at least
20 feet. The broken screen is intended to create the impression of a separation of spaces without necessarily eliminating visual
contact between the spaces. It may be composed of a wall, fence, landscaped earth berm, planted vegetation, or existing
vegetation. Compliance of planted vegetative screens or natural vegetation will be judged on the basis of the average mature
height and density of foliage of the subject species, or field observation of existing vegetation. The screen may contain
deciduous plants.
B. Semi-Opaque Screen, Type ‘B’ – a screen that is opaque from the ground to a height of three feet, with intermittent visual
obstruction from above the opaque portion to a height of at least 20 feet. The semi-opaque screen is intended to partially block
visual contact between uses and to create a strong impression of the separation of spaces. The semi-opaque screen may be
composed of a wall, fence, landscaped earth berm, planted vegetation, or existing vegetation. Compliance of planted vegetative
screens or natural vegetation will be judged on the basis of the average mature height and density of foliage of the subject
species, or field observation of existing vegetation. At maturity, the portion of intermittent visual obstructions should not
contain any completely unobstructed openings more than ten feet wide. The zone of intermittent visual obstruction may contain
deciduous plants.
C. Opaque Screen, Type ‘C’ – a screen that is opaque from the ground to a height of at least six feet, with intermittent visual
obstructions from the opaque portion to a height of at least 20 feet. An opaque screen is intended to exclude all visual contact
between uses and to create a strong impression of spatial separation. The opaque screen may be composed of a wall, fence,
landscaped earth berm, planted vegetation, or existing vegetation. Compliance of planted vegetative screens or natural
vegetation will be judged on the basis of the average mature height and density of foliage of the subject species, or field
observation of existing vegetation. The opaque portion of the screen must be opaque in all seasons of the year. At maturity, the
portion of intermittent visual obstructions should not contain any completely unobstructed openings more than ten feet wide.
The portion of intermittent visual obstructions may contain deciduous plants.
4. Storage Areas. The outdoor storage of materials, equipment, or supplies, when permitted in any commercial or industrial
district, shall be so located and screened, fenced, or landscaped to comply with a type “C” screen as described in Chapter 194.02 to
prevent visibility of such storage from all street right-of-way and appropriate adjoining property lines as determined by the
Department Director. Such screening shall comply with the standard for an opaque screen type “C” as described in Paragraph C of
Subsection 3 of this Section.

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Table 194.01
Off-Street Parking Requirements
Use Category

Subtype

Parking Requirement

Single-Family Detached Dwelling

2 spaces per dwelling unit, plus 1 space per room rented out

Manufactured, Factory-Built, or Mobile Home

2 spaces per dwelling unit, plus 1 space per room rented out

Single-Family Attached or Bi-Attached Dwelling

2 spaces per dwelling unit, plus 1 space per room rented out

Two-Family or Duplex Dwelling

2 spaces per dwelling unit, except that one-bedroom units require only 1 space

Townhouse or Rowhouse

2 spaces per dwelling unit, plus 1 space per room rented out, plus 1 additional space for every 4 units in the development

Residential
Single-Family Detached

Single-Family Attached

For multi-family units located in buildings where each dwelling unit has an entrance and living space on the ground floor, 1 ½ spaces for each
1 bedroom unit and 2 spaces for each unit with 2 or more bedrooms

Multiple-Family

Apartment or Condominium

For multi-family units limited to persons of low or moderate income or the elderly, 1 space per unit
For all other multifamily units, 1 space for each bedroom in each unit
For all multifamily developments, 1 additional space for every 4 units in the development

Boardinghouse or Rooming House

1 space per bedroom

Aviation Facility (Airport, Helipad, Landing Field, etc.)

1 space per 300/400 square feet of gross terminal floor area

Cemetery

No requirement

College or University (Public and Private)

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Commercial Trade, Business, or Vocational School

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Community Garden

1 space per 1,000 square feet of lot area used for storage, display, or sales

Cultural Education Facility (Library, Museum, Gallery, Aquarium, etc.)

1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area

Civic, Institutional, and Utility

Civic and Institutional
Government Services (Administration, Public Safety Facility, Emergency Services, etc.)

Utilities

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area for operations designed to attract and serve customers
1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area for operations designed to attract little or no customer traffic

Park, Playground, or Common Open Space (Public or Private)

Refer to Park Facility Standards Manual.

Place of Worship

1 space for every 80 square feet of worship area

Post Office

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

School (including Preschool), Primary or Secondary (Public or Private)

2 spaces per classroom for elementary, middle, and junior high school; 5 spaces for high school

Senior, Youth, or Community Center (Public or Private)

1 space per 300 feet of gross floor area

Utility, Major or Minor

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Amusement Enterprise (Carnival, Circus, Rides, Shows, etc.)

Refer to Conditional Use Requirements in Chapter…

Club, Lodge, or Fraternal or Veteran Organization

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Commercial

Assembly, Entertainment, and Recreation

Automotive

Golf Course, Driving Range Country Club, Tennis or Swimming Club (Publicily/Privately-Owned)

Recreation Facility, Indoor/Outdoor (Public or Private)

1 space for every 3 persons that the facilities are designed to accommodate when fully utilized (if they can be measured in such
a fashion – for example, tennis courts or bowling alleys) plus 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area used in a manner
not susceptible to such a calculation.

Theater or Place of Public Assembly

1 space for every 4 seats

Automotive Parts, Supplies, and Accessory Sales

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Automotive Sales, Leasing, and Rental

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Automotive Service and Repair, Major

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Automotive Service and Repair, Minor

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Car Wash

Commercial Sales and Service

Food and Beverage

Conveyor Type: 1 space for every 3 employees on the maximum shift, plus 3 stacking spaces per queue lane.
Self-Service Type: 2 stacking spaces in front of each bay.

Gas Station

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Animal Services Facility

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Building Material Sales or Lumberyard

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space per 1,000 square feet of lot area used for storage, display, or sales.

Consumer Maintenance and Repair Service (Tailor, Dry Cleaner, etc.)

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Convenience Store, Drug Store, Liquor or Tobacco Store

1 space per 150 square feet of gross floor area

Florist, Greenhouse, or Garden Center

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space per 1,000 square feet of lot area used for greenhouse or garden
center operations.

Grocery Store or Supermarket

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Handicraft or Artisanal Service

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Hardware Store

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Multi-Tenant Commercial Center (up to 50,000 square feet)

0 - 25,000 square feet: 5 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area
25,001 - 50,000 square feet: 4.5 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area

Multi-Tenant Commercial Center (more than 50,000 square feet)

50,001 - 100,000 square feet: 4 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area
100,001 - 200,000 square feet: 3.5 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area
200,001 or more square feet: 3 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area

Pawnbroker

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Personal Service (Nail Salon, Barber, etc.)

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Retail Sales Establishment

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Self-Service Storage

1 space per 10 storage units, plus 1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area dedicated to retail and/or office space

Sexually Oriented Business (Ch. 140, Ankeny Municipal Code)*

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Small Engine Maintenance and Repair

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Bar, Tavern or Lounge

1 space per 150 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space for every 4 outside seats

Craft Brewery, Winery, or Distillery

1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space for every 4 outside seats

Catering Establishment

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift, plus 1 space for every delivery vehicle on premise

Restaurant

1 space per 150 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space for every 4 outside seats.
1 space per 150 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space for every 4 outside seats, plus 5 stacking spaces per drive through
window

Restaurant, Drive-In or Drive-Thru

Health and Human Services

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area for publically accessible buildings (club houses, event spaces, etc.) , plus 1 space
for every 3 persons that the outdoor facilities are designed to accommodate when used to the maximum capacity.

Adult Day Services

1 space for every employee on maximum shift, plus 1 space for every 400 square feet of gross floor area

Assisted Living Facility

3 spaces for every five beds except for uses exclusively serving children under 16, in which case 1 space for every 3 beds shall be
required

Child Care Facility

1 space per employee plus 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space per 5,000 square feet of gross floor area
or any portion thereof

Clinic

1 space per 250 square feet of gross floor area

Correctional Facility

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Funeral Home or Mortuary Service

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Hospital, Medical Lab, or Urgent Care

1 space per 250 square feet of gross floor area.

Wellness, Fitness, or Exercise Facility

1 space for every 3 persons that the facilities are designed to accommodate when fully utilized (if they can be measured in such
a fashion – for example, tennis courts or bowling alleys) plus 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area used in a manner
not susceptible to such a calculation.

Page 91 of 146

Bed and Breakfast Inn

1 space per room to be rented plus additional space (in accordance with other sections of this table) for restaurant or other
facilities

Campground or Recreational Vehicle Park

1 space for every 4 stalls dedicated to campground or recreational vehicles

Hotel, Motel or Inn

1 space per room to be rented plus additional space (in accordance with other sections of this table) for restaurant or other
facilities

Resort

1 space per room to be rented plus additional space (in accordance with other sections of this table) for restaurant or other
facilities

Television or Radio Studio

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Creative Arts Studio or Instructional Service

1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area

Financial Institution

1 space per 400 square feet of area within main building, plus 3 stacking spaces per drive though window
1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area for operations designed to serve customers or clients on the premises, otherwise
400 square feet.

Lodging and Overnight Accommodations

Office and Studio

Office
Industrial

Agriculture

Light Industrial

Heavy Industrial

Agriculture Sales

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Agriculture Support Service

The Department Director shall determine the parking requirements as authorized per section 194.01(D)

Animal or Crop Production

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Nursery, Retail or Wholesale

1 space per 1,000 square feet of lot area used for storage, display, or sales

Stable (Public or Commercial)

1 space per horse that could be kept at the stable when occupied to maximum capacity

Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility (with outdoor storage)

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility (without outdoor storage)

1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area

Outdoor Storage

1 space for every 2 employees on the maximum shift

Experimental, Research, Testing, and Development Laboratory

1 space for every 2 employees on the maximum shift

Light Industrial, Generally

1 space for every 2 employees on the maximum shift

Manufacturing and Assembly, Light

1 space for every 2 employees on the maximum shift

Warehousing and Distribution (Retail or Wholesale)

1 space for every 2 employees on the maximum shift or 1 space per 5,000 square feet of area devoted to warehousing or
storage

Heavy Industrial, Generally

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Manufacturing and Assembly, Heavy

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Junk, Scrap, or Salvage Yard

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Mining, Mineral Processing, or Extraction of Raw Material

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Motor Freight or Truck Transportation Terminal

1 space for every 2 employees on maximum shift

Parking Lot or Structure

N/A

Passenger Transportation Terminal (Bus Station, Railroad Passenger Station, etc.)

1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area

Truck, Tractor, Trailer, or Bus Storage, Parking Yard, Lot, or Garage

N/A

Transportation and Parking

Page 92 of 146

CHAPTER 195
ZONING ORDINANCE
SIGNS
195.01 TITLE
1.

This chapter shall be known and may be cited and referred to as the "Sign Ordinance" of the City of Ankeny, Iowa, and shall
apply to all properties within the City. This ordinance is adopted as part of the City of Ankeny Zoning Ordinance per Iowa
Code 414.

195.02 STATEMENT OF INTENT AND SEVERABILITY
1.

In the interest of promoting the general welfare of the community and public safety, it is recognized that the community should be
aesthetically attractive as well as financially prosperous. The purpose of this chapter is to regulate signs in such a way as to establish
a compatibility of sign usage with the land use patterns and standards for the zoning district, and to permit such signs which will
not, by reason of their size, location, construction or manner of display cause an annoyance or disturbance to citizens, detract from
the community's aesthetic attractiveness, diminish property values, create a hazard, confuse or mislead traffic, obstruct vision
necessary for traffic safety, or otherwise endanger the public health or safety. The intent of this chapter is to regulate signs by their
physical characteristics and not by their message.

2.

If one or more provisions of this chapter is found by a court of jurisdiction to be unlawful, invalid, unenforceable, or preempted by
applicable state or federal law or regulations, such provisions shall be severed from this chapter. The remaining provisions of this
chapter remain in full force and effect.

195.03 DEFINITIONS. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply:
1.

“Awning, canopy, or marquee” means an attached structure designed to provide cover for entrances, walkways, and windows.

2. “Decorative device” means a temporary ornamental element such as a pennant, streamer, or similar accessory that does not
contain any advertisement or information.
3. “Development” means a tract of land containing one or more abutting parcels of land developed or to be developed as a unit
under single ownership or unified control which is included in a single site plan, preliminary plat, neighborhood plan, or PUD.
4. "Flag" means any sign printed or painted on cloth, plastic, canvas, or other like material with words, colors, patterns, or symbols
that is attached or appended to a flagpole, staff, line or frame, but does not include feather flag signs.
5. “Flag, Government” means any fabric, banner or bunting containing words, numbers, colors, patterns or symbols, used as a
symbol of a government or political subdivision, including flags of the United States, the State, the City, foreign nations having
diplomatic relations with the United States, and other flags adopted or sanctioned by an elected legislative body of competent
jurisdiction.
6. “Flagpole” means a freestanding or attached structure designed specifically for displaying a flag, which includes the pole or
mast on which the flag is raised, any associated halyard, pulleys, cleats, or other equipment necessary for raising, lowering, or
securing the flag. The height of a flagpole shall be measured from the base of the structure to the highest point of the pole, including
any ornamental caps or finials. Flagpoles may be constructed from various materials including, but not limited to, metal, wood, or
fiberglass.
7.

“Fuel pump island canopy” means a structure that provides shelter over fuel pump islands.

8. “Moving, flashing, or glaring light” means any flashing lights, strobe lights, rotating beams, pulsating lights, moving lights,
beacons, exposed neon, or exposed fluorescent tubes or light bulbs.
9.

“Multi-Occupancy Building” means a building designed to be occupied by two or more separate businesses.

10. “Mural” means a hand-painted, tiled, or digitally printed image on the exterior wall of a building that does not contain any
commercial message, including, but not limited to, advertising a business, services rendered, or goods produced or sold.
11. “Decorative device” means decorative elements, including, but not limited to, spinners, streamers, or pennants, typically made
of lightweight materials like fabric, plastic, or paper used for promotional or advertising purposes.
12. “Roofline” means that line at which an exterior wall surface of a building structure departs from a vertical plane.
13. “Sign” means an accessory structure depicting a name, identification, description, display, illustration, structure, device which
is affixed to or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, or other allowed outdoor surface or a piece of land, and which
directs attention to an object, product, place, activity, person, institution, organization, or business.

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A. “Sign, A-frame” means a freestanding sign, other than a portable sign, that may be placed adjacent to the building at or
near the entrance to the business, intending to only serve to advertise to pedestrian traffic at the building. May also be referred
to as, “sandwich board sign” or “sidewalk sign.”
B. “Sign, Advertising” means a sign or billboard which directs attention to a business, commodity, service, or entertainment
conducted, sold, or offered elsewhere than on the premises.
C. “Sign, Awning, canopy, or marquee” means a sign that is attached to the surface of an awning, canopy, marquee, or similar
structure.
D. “Sign, Balloon” means an inflatable balloon or device used as a sign.
E. “Sign, Banner” means a temporary display of information on material such as canvas or plastic.
F. “Sign, Bench” means a sign painted upon or otherwise attached to or a part of a sitting bench at a DART designated bus
stop.
G. “Sign, Billboard” – See also, “Sign, Off-premises.”
H. “Sign, Building” means a sign attached to the exterior surface of a building, including, but not limited to, walls, windows,
and doors.
I. “Sign, Changeable” means a sign or portion of a sign with separate inset letters, pictures, and/or symbols which can easily
be removed and which are periodically changed.
J. “Sign, Construction or Development” means a temporary sign located on the site of a new development that lists owners,
developers, builders, contractors, financers, suppliers, or similar identifying information.
K. “Sign, Digital advertising” means an off-premises sign utilizing digital message technology, capable of changing the static
message or copy on the sign electronically. A digital advertising sign shall not be considered a flashing sign, video sign,
changeable sign or electronic message center sign. See also, “Sign, Billboard” and “Sign, Off-premises.”
L. “Sign, Directional” means a sign, but not an informational sign, that is erected upon private property and legible from offsite, to provide pedestrian or traffic directions and which may bear a company logo or color scheme in addition to the directional
arrow or word message.
M. “Sign, Double face” means a sign displaying identical information on opposite sides.
N. “Sign, Drive-thru facility” means a sign customarily listing drive-up items in conjunction with a business serving customers
in a vehicle.
O. “Sign, Electronic message center” means a sign with separate inset electronic panels, letters, and/or symbols which are
periodically changed.
P. “Sign, Feather flag” means a temporary sign consisting of a flexible, vertical pole to which a long, narrow, often teardropshaped or feather-shaped banner is attached. The height of a feather flag shall be measured from the ground to the top of the
banner, including the supporting pole.
Q. “Sign, Flashing” means any illuminated sign in which the artificial light is not maintained both stationary and constant in
intensity and color at all times when a sign is in use, but excluding electronic message center signs and video signs.
R. “Sign, Freestanding” means a pylon sign, freeway-oriented sign, or monument sign that is not part of the principal structure.
S. “Sign, Freeway-oriented” means a freestanding sign located on property abutting the interstate, with a width of base not
less than 40 percent of the width of the sign structure supported by the base.
T. “Sign, Fuel pump island” means a single- or double-faced sign located on a fuel pump, and not intended to be viewed from
off-site.
U. “Sign, Fuel pump island canopy” means a sign located on a fuel pump island canopy.
V. “Sign, Government” means any sign that is constructed, placed or maintained by or at the direction of the federal, state,
county, or local government.
W. “Sign, Illuminated” means any sign which has characters, letters, figures, design, or outline illuminated by electric lights or
luminous tubes as part of the sign face.
X. “Sign, Informational” means a sign, but not a directional sign, that is erected upon private property and not legible from
off-site, to identify or locate building or site functions, such as car wash bay or drive-in window.

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Y. “Sign, Monument” means a freestanding sign, which is not a pylon sign or freeway-oriented sign, erected upon or supported
by the ground.
Z. “Sign, Moving” means any sign which has any visible movement achieved by electrical, mechanical, or air-activated
means, including intermediate electrical pulsations, or by action of normal wind currents.
AA. “Sign, Off-premises” means a sign identifying or advertising a business, person, activity, goods, products or service, which
is not related to, or available at the premises where the sign in located. See also, “Sign, Billboard,” “Sign, Advertising,” and
“Sign, Digital Advertising.”
BB. “Sign, Political” means a temporary sign which displays information pertaining to an upcoming governmental district, city,
county, state, or national election.
CC. “Sign, Portable” means a sign, other than an A-frame sign, so designed as to be movable from one location to another and
not permanently attached to the ground or to any immobile structure. A portable sign may consist of a panel supported by legs
or wheels and/or a mobile structure such as a trailer, panel truck, semi-truck trailer, or other device whose primary function
during a specific time period is to be stationary and used as a sign.
DD. “Sign, Projected image” means a sign that projects an image onto a surface from a distant electronic device, rather than
originating from the surface itself.
EE. “Sign, Projecting” means a b u i l d in g sign, also referred to as a blade sign, which projects from and is supported by a
wall of a building or structure.
FF. “Sign, Civic Event” means a temporary sign which promotes civic events or promotions limited to City-recognized
activities, events, and/or celebrations.
GG. “Sign, Public interest landmark sign” means any sign intended to identify an area or landmark which serves the public
interest, but is not a government sign.
HH. “Sign, Pylon” means a freestanding sign erected upon a single post or posts or shafts that converge at a common base with
the posts not more than 15 feet apart, with the display portion mounted on top thereof.
II. “Sign, Real estate” means a sign intended to aid on the sale, rental, or lease of real property.
JJ. “Sign, Roof” means a permanent sign located on the roof of a building or structure, extending above the parapet or roofline.
KK. “Sign, Temporary” means any sign which is erected for a limited time and/or special purpose.
LL. “Sign, Traffic directional” means a sign erected by a public agency for the purpose of guiding vehicular and pedestrian
traffic in a safe and convenient manner, which bears no advertising information, and which complies with the Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD).
MM.
“Sign, Video” means a sign containing electronic panels capable of producing full color video images and intended for
this purpose to display full motion video similar to television or motion picture images.
NN. “Sign, Window” means a sign considered as a building sign, that is affixed or applied to the exterior surface of a window
or door. Signs affixed or applied to the interior surface of a window or door are not considered window signs.
14. “Sign area” means that area within the marginal lines or extreme outside edge of the surface which bears the advertisement (sign
cabinet); or in the case of messages, figures, or symbols attached directly to any part of a building (no sign cabinet), that area which
is included within three geometric shapes which can be made to circumscribe any message, figure, or symbol displayed thereon. For
a sign with not more than two back-to-back faces, only the area of one side is computed in determining the sign area.
15. “Sign grade” means the lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving, or sidewalk within the area
between the sign and a line five feet from the sign.
16. “Sign height” means the dimension calculated from the sign grade to the uppermost surface of any part of the sign or support
structure, whichever is taller.
17. “Sign setback” means the shortest distance between a property or public right-of-way line and the surface or main supporting
structure of a sign, whichever is closest.
18. “Visibility triangle” means a triangular area established at the intersection of streets and driveways protected from
encroachments greater than 30 inches tall and intended to protect the line of sight of drivers, pedestrians, and bicyclists (191.15).
195.04 GENERAL PROHIBITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
1.

No sign shall be allowed except as permitted by this chapter.
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2. No sign shall be located within the required sign setback or visibility triangle (191.15) of street intersection as defined in Chapter
191.15. No sign shall be located so that the safety of a moving vehicle or pedestrian will be impaired by obscuring a driver's or pedestrian's
vision.
3. No person shall install, erect, construct, hang, or alter any sign within the City without first obtaining from the City a Sign Permit,
unless such sign is otherwise exempt under this chapter.
4. No person shall replace an existing sign or sign face without first obtaining from the City a Sign Permit, unless such sign is otherwise
exempt under this chapter.
5. Signs shall be properly erected or attached to a structure and kept in good repair. Any lettering, logo, design, and other markings
placed upon the sign shall be clear, distinct, and readable and maintained in that condition.
195.05 SIGN AREA FORMULAS
1. The sign area is determined by the Development Services Director, using actual dimensions where practical or approximate
dimensions when irregularity of a sign shape warrants. The area of each sign type is to be measured with either Formula A or
Formula B as noted below.
2. For building signs that are applied via channel lettering or similar application that does not utilize a cabinet or backer panel
surface other than a typical raceway, the sign area shall be calculated using Formula A. For building signs fixed upon a cabinet or
backer panel surface that is separate from and not customarily part of the building wall, the sign area shall be calculated using
Formula B. All freestanding signs shall have their sign area calculated using Formula B.
A. Formula A. The sign area is the sum of the area of up to three (3) contiguous rectangles, squares, or circles that enclose
the extreme points or edges of all copy, logos and symbols of said sign.
Formula A: (A1 x A2) + (B1 x B2) + (C1 x C2) = Sign Area
0B

B2
B1
A1

C1

C2
A2

B. Formula B. The sign area is the area of one rectangle, square or circle that encloses the extreme points or edges of all areas
where copy may be placed on a sign. This area does not include structural or architectural features of the sign where copy will
not be located.
Formula B: A x B = Sign Area

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195.06 PROHIBITED SIGNS. The following signs shall not be allowed, erected or maintained on any property within the City unless
otherwise specified in this chapter.
1. Moving, flashing, or glaring lights. Signs incorporating any flashing lights, strobe lights, rotating beams, pulsating lights,
moving lights, beacons, exposed neon, or exposed fluorescent tubes or light bulbs are prohibited outside of buildings or visible from
the outside in all zoning districts, except for special events approved by the City Council per the City’s special event procedures, or
when legally displayed as emergency or warning lights. Sign illumination must be designed to reflect light away from residential
properties and motorists' vision.
2. Painting directly on exterior walls, windows, or doors, or freestanding signs. Signs shall not be painted directly on any exterior
building surface or freestanding sign surface but shall be on a separate frame. Signs, letters, and symbols may be attached directly
to a wall, window, door, or freestanding sign by adhesive or mechanical means.
3. Banner signs, feather flag signs, or decorative devices, except as specified in this chapter as a permitted temporary sign.
4. Moving signs.
5. Balloon signs.
6. Hazardous signs as prescribed in Chapter 195.13.
7. Obstructions. Signs that constitute an obstruction so as to prevent free ingress or egress through any door, window or
fire escape.
8.

Prohibited attachment. No sign or other advertising structure of any kind shall be attached to a standpipe or fire extinguisher.

9.

Obscene matter. Signs that display obscene matters in violation of Iowa Code 728.

10. Portable signs, except as specified in this chapter as an allowed temporary sign.
11. Roof signs.
12. Billboards or off-premises signs, except those allowed in Chapter 195.11.
13. Pylon signs.
14. Signs projecting over public right-of-way. No permanent or temporary signs shall be upon or overhang the public right-of-way
or the boundary of adjacent property except traffic signs erected by the City, County, or State; and except for signs in special areas
such as the District at Prairie Trail or Uptown business/entertainment districts as defined in Chapter 143.01, and authorized by the
Plan and Zoning Commission and City Council. See also Chapters 195.10 and 195.14.
15. Discontinued use. Signs on a property that is vacant or un-occupied for a period of more than six (6) months.
16. Unlawful signs. Any sign unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation of this chapter.
17. Mobile signs and signs attached to or painted on an inoperable or unlicensed vehicle or trailer.
18. Temporary signs, except those that are specifically allowed by this chapter.
19. Projected image signs.
195.07 EXEMPTIONS
1.

The following signs shall not require a sign permit:
A. Government signs and flags are exempt from the Sign Regulations, the Sign Design Standards, and the Sign Permits and
Fees requirement.
B. Signs located within the confines of a building, including signs affixed or applied to the interior surface of a window or
door.
C. Building addresses on buildings and signs as required by the City.
D. Murals, to the extent they meet the standards herein this chapter.
E. Construction or development signs, provided that no final plat contains more than two such signs exceeding 64 square feet
each.
F.

Informational signs.

G. Real estate signs, provided that no single lot has more than one such sign not to exceed 8 square feet for one- and twofamily lots; or 32 square feet for all other lots.
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H. A-frame signs, provided they do not exceed 2 feet by 3 feet, are unlighted, and shall not occupy parking spaces or block
sidewalks or walkways.
I. Civic event signs. Signs in promotion of a special civic event recognized by the City Council, and not exceeding 32 square
feet in area for each sign, are permissible for no more than 60 days before the first day of an event, celebration, or festival and
shall be removed immediately upon the completion of the event, celebration, or festival. Such signs may be located in any
zoning district subject to the permission of the property owner.
J. Fuel pump island signs. A single- or double-faced sign with a single side not in excess of three (3) square feet shall be
permitted on each gasoline pump, and not intended to be viewed from off-site.
K. Political signs. Temporary political campaign signs may be placed no more than 12 months prior to and shall be removed
within ten days after the election for which they are applicable. In all cases where campaign signs are not removed within the
time limit allowed or after notice to be removed by the City, the City may cause the signs to be removed and the cost of removal
shall be charged to the person named on the sign.
L. Bench Signs, which shall be permitted in any district.
M. Public interest landmark signs, subject to approval by the City Council.
N. Flags, but not including feather flag signs, to the extent they meet the standards herein this chapter.
195.08 SIGN TYPES. For the purposes of this chapter, the following sign types as defined herein are placed into the following
categories:
1.

Permanent Signs
A. Building Signs
B. Freestanding Signs
(1) Monument Signs
(2) Freeway-Oriented Signs
(3) Directional Signs
(4) Drive-Thru Facility Signs

2.

Temporary Signs

3.

Flags

195.09 SIGN REGULATIONS
1.

Permanent and temporary signs permitted by zoning district are subject to the provisions listed in Table 195.09, Sign Regulations.

195.10 SIGN DESIGN STANDARDS
1.

Building Signs.
A. All illuminated signs shall have an indirect or diffused light source and be designed so as not to direct rays of light onto
public streets or adjacent property, thereby creating a nuisance or hazard.
B. Projecting signs or awning, canopy, or marquee signs, where permitted, shall comply with the following standards:
(1) Application. Projecting signs as regulated by this chapter shall include any sign which projects from, and is
supported by a wall of a building or structure, including awning, canopy, or marquee signs.
(2) Construction. Every projecting sign or awning, canopy, or marquee sign, including the frame, braces and supports
thereof, shall meet current Building Code standards.
(3) Clearance height. No part of any projecting sign or awning, canopy, or marquee sign shall be less than eight (8) feet
above ground level, except that every projecting sign or awning, canopy, or marquee sign to be erected over public or
private driveways or thoroughfares shall be placed not less than fifteen (15) feet above the level of same.
C. Building signs located on a multi-occupancy building shall have the allowable sign area calculated on a per-unit basis by
the tenant frontage upon which they are located.

2.

Freestanding Signs.
A. Monument Signs and Freeway-Oriented Signs, Generally.
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(1) Monument signs throughout the City of Ankeny shall be considered as freestanding signs with the exception that
properties abutting the interstate may be allowed to erect a freeway-oriented sign.
(2) Lighting regulations. All illuminated signs shall have an indirect or diffused light source and be designed so as not to
direct rays of light onto public streets or adjacent property, thereby creating a nuisance or hazard.
(3) Sign area. The sign area of freestanding signs shall be calculated using Formula B as described in Chapter 195.05.2.B.
(4) Sign height. The height of freestanding signs shall be calculated from the sign grade to the uppermost surface of the
sign or support structure, whichever is taller.
(5) Sign setback. No sign shall be located within the required sign setback or visibility triangle (191.15) of street intersection
as defined in Chapter 191.15. No sign shall be located so that the safety of a moving vehicle or pedestrian will be impaired by
obscuring a driver's or pedestrian's vision.
(6) Sign base. The base or support structure for freestanding signs shall complement the design of the building to which
it is accessory by incorporating materials such as brick, stone, decorative block, or similar substantial materials used in the
construction of the building. The base of monument signs shall be a minimum of two feet in height in all zoning districts.
At the discretion of the Department Director, residential signage may be incorporated into a landscape theme in lieu of the
required base.
B. Changeable signs and electronic message center signs. Any monument sign as permitted by this chapter may contain a
changeable sign or electronic message center sign, provided conformance with the following:
(1) Such sign shall not exceed fifty percent (50%) of the total sign area.
(2) Electronic message center signs shall be required to adjust in intensity related to ambient light levels.
(3) The images and messages displayed on an electronic message center sign must have a minimum dwell time of at least
seven (7) seconds before changing to the next image or message.
(4) There shall be no flashing signs or use of flashing messages or pictures of any type. For the purpose of this section,
electronic message center signs with smooth transitions such as fading or slow scrolling would not be considered flashing.
(5) The messages and images for each electronic message center sign shall be limited to three (3) colors. An approved
monument sign may have more than one electronic message center sign provided the total area of all such electronic
displays does not exceed 50% of the total sign area.
(6) The brightness of any electronic message center sign shall not exceed a maximum illumination of 5,000 candelas per
square meter (nits) during daylight hours and a maximum illumination of 250 candelas per square meter (nits) between
dusk and dawn, as measured from the brightest element on the sign’s face. Electronic message center signs must be
equipped with a light detector or photocell that automatically adjusts the display’s brightness according to natural ambient
light conditions.
C. Fuel Pump Island Canopy Signs.
(1) Fuel pump island canopies shall be entitled to two fuel pump island canopy signs in addition to those otherwise
permitted on the principal structure.
(2) Fuel pump island canopy signs shall not exceed 10 feet in length or 20 square feet each, and shall not be located on
the same side of the canopy.
(3) Fuel pump island canopy signs shall be placed in a manner that will allow a six-inch minimum border between the
top, bottom, and sides of a fuel pump island canopy face. The sign area for fuel pump island canopy signs is determined
by measuring the text only. Stripes or colors do not contribute to the sign area computation.
D. Video Signs are permitted under the following conditions:
(1) Video signs shall only be allowed as a component of a freeway-oriented sign and shall not exceed 50 percent of the
sign area.
(2) Video signs shall be required to automatically adjust in intensity related to ambient light levels.
3.

Temporary Signs; promotions or special events.
A. The following types of temporary signs may be allowed without a permit in accordance with the regulations herein this
chapter.
(1) Freestanding signs, including, but not limited to, banner signs or feather flag signs.
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(2) Banner signs attached to a building wall or window or covering and affixed to an existing building sign.
(3) Bag signs covering and affixed to an existing monument sign.
(4) Additional banners, feather flags, or decorative devices which bear no advertisement may be allowed for the duration
of the temporary sign.
B. Time Limit. No temporary sign shall be in place for a period greater than 30 days per calendar year.
195.11 NONCONFORMING SIGNS
1. Continuation of Previously Permitted Signs. Existing signs, other than temporary signs, which were permitted under sign
regulations in effect prior to enactment of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived may be kept as and where they were
then located, even though they may not conform to these regulations. Upon replacement of any elements of the sign other than the
sign face within an existing cabinet, unless the replacement is for the purpose of repair or maintenance and is essentially identical
in nature to the original as determined by the Department Director, the sign must comply with the regulations herein this chapter.
2. New off-premises advertising signs (billboards) are not permitted. Existing non-conforming billboards are allowed to be
converted to digital advertising signs subject to the following criteria:
1. For every one existing sign face converted from non-electronic to a digital advertising sign, two other existing nonelectronic billboard sign faces must be removed. Sign faces shall be removed so that in no instance shall a sign face be left on
a structure without another sign face backing up to it and consequently exposing the back side of the sign structure.
2.

The digital advertising sign may not exceed the sign height or sign area of the existing sign being replaced.

3. The digital advertising sign shall be supported by a monopole structure, unless otherwise approved by City staff or the
Plan and Zoning Commission.
4. The maximum brightness of the digital advertising sign shall not exceed a luminance of 5,000 NITS during daylight hours.
The maximum brightness of the sign shall not exceed a luminance of 500 NITS during the period from dusk to dawn.
5. The digital advertising sign shall have an automatic dimmer control or ambient light monitors to produce an illumination
change from a higher illumination level to a lower one for the period of time from dusk to dawn.
6. A digital advertising sign shall contain static imagery or messages only, and shall not have any type of motion, animation,
scrolling of text, sequential displays, movement or the appearance or optical illusion of movement, of any part of the sign
structure, design, or pictorial segment of the sign. Each static message shall not include flashing, scintillating lighting or the
varying of light intensity.
7.

Any image or message displayed on the digital advertising sign must have a minimum duration time of eight seconds.

8. The transition from one image to another shall appear instantaneous. The use of special effects or specialized transitions
is prohibited.
9.

Digital advertising signs shall not be within 1000’ of each other when facing the same way.

10. All approved digital advertising signs shall be made available for usage for Amber Alerts and other Emergency Community
Notifications as deemed necessary by appropriate Emergency and Law Enforcement Agencies and community information
approved by the City Council and City staff.
11. All digital advertising signs will be permitted only after obtaining all applicable permits from the City and payment of all
permit fees, provided the standards and restrictions in this section, as well as all applicable requirements of all other adopted
ordinances and regulations of the City, are met.
195.12 MAINTENANCE; REFUSE AND REMOVAL
1. All signs shall be maintained in good condition and the areas around them kept free from debris, bushes, and high weeds and
from anything else which would be a nuisance.
2. All business signs shall be removed from the building and property by the owner of the property within 30 days after business
or use is terminated except for framework that is expected to be used for a future business sign.
3.

All signs shall contain current information. Outdated signs or signs with outdated information shall be removed by the owner.

4. When any sign is removed, the enforcing officer shall be notified and the entire surrounding area shall be cleared of all debris
and unsightly projections and protrusions.
5. When a sign placed on private property is not in compliance with this chapter and has not been removed by the owner or
operator of a business, the City shall have the right to remove the sign, after ten days’ written notice, and charge the cost of removal
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to the owner or operator. Where a safety hazard exists, the City may remove the sign without notice.
195.13 SIGNS NOT TO CONSTITUTE A HAZARD
1. No sign shall be installed or allowed to exist when constituted as a hazardous sign, which is any sign that:
A. Is structurally unsafe; or
B. Constitutes a hazard to safety or health by reason of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation or abandonment;
or
C. Directs rays of light onto public streets; or
D. Is not kept in good repair; or
E. Is capable of causing electrical shocks to persons likely to come in contact with it; or
F. By reason of position, shape, color, or wording, would interfere with the proper functioning of any official traffic sign,
signal, or device.
195.14 SIGNS ON PUBLIC PROPERTY OR RIGHT-OF-WAY
1. It is unlawful for any person to paint, print or in any way affix any picture, bill, sign, signboard, poster or advertising material
on any post, utility pole, fire escape, hydrant, curb, sidewalk, tree, lamppost or other structure of any kind on, or so as to overhang
or protrude over, any property owned by the City or any easement of the City unless otherwise authorized by this chapter.
2. Any sign not in compliance with this Chapter that is placed on, or protruding over, City-owned property or a City right-of-way
easement without City approval shall be forfeited to the public and subject to confiscation. If a sign on public property violates this
chapter, the City shall have the right to remove it immediately and store it for not less than three days, whereupon the City may
dispose of the sign in a manner similar to other abandoned property. The City shall have the right to recover from the sign owner
or person placing such a sign the full costs of removal and disposal of such sign.
195.15 SIGN ADMINISTRATION
1. Compliance with Chapter. No sign shall be erected, installed, constructed, altered, relocated, or painted within the City, except
as otherwise specified in this chapter and unless it shall conform to and meet the requirements of this chapter.
2. Application for Permit. Application for permits shall be made in such form as required by the Development Services
Department and shall contain or have attached thereto all items listed on the respective application currently published by the
Development Services Department.
3.

Enforcing Officer. The Department Director shall be the enforcing officer of this chapter.

4.

Permit Fees. Permit fees for signs shall be as established by City Council Resolution.

195.16 VARIANCES AUTHORIZED
1. To provide reasonable flexibility in the sign regulations, the Board of Adjustment may approve a variance for a sign otherwise
not permitted by these regulations where an exception would not be inconsistent with the intent of the sign regulations.
2. Conditions to Granting. No variance shall be granted unless the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall find that either of the
conditions outlined in paragraph A and B exists:
A. All of the following requirements must be met:
(1) Special conditions exist which are peculiar to the land, structure, and building involved and which are not applicable
to other lands, structures, or buildings in the same district;
(2) The special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant;
(3) A literal interpretation of the provisions of these regulations would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed
by other properties in the same district and the terms of these sign regulations;
(4) That granting the variance requested would not confer on the applicant any special privilege for a use not common to
other lands, structures or buildings in the same district; and
(5) The proposed use of the property shall have an appearance that will not have an adverse effect upon adjacent properties
and there will be no deterrence to development of vacant land.
B. Any proposed signage beyond the maximum square footage permitted would have the primary function of providing a
public service.
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3. Requests and Fees. All requests for variances shall be made in writing to the City on the form provided by the City and the
request shall include the fee specified in the City Council Resolution. All information required when applying for a sign permit, as
outlined in this chapter, shall be required before the request for a variance is considered by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

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Table 195.09
Sign Regulations
Permanent Signs

Zoning District
AG / RL / RM / RH

UP / NMU / CMU / NC / CC / CU

BP / LI / HI

Building Signs
1 sign per principal building wall facing a public street
for multi-family residential and permitted non-residential uses.

Building signs may be located on any side of a building, with each building wall calculated separately per the maximum sign area formula below.

For buildings set back up to 40 feet: 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage, not
to exceed 60 square feet

For buildings set back up to 40 feet:
1 square foot per lineal foot of building or tenant frontage, not to exceed 100 square feet

For buildings set back 41-100 feet: 1 square foot per lineal foot of building frontage, not
to exceed 100 square feet

For buildings set back 41-100 feet:
1.5 square feet per lineal foot of building or tenant frontage

For buildings set back greater than 100 feet: 1 square foot per lineal foot of building
frontage, not to exceed 200 square feet

For buildings set back greater than 100 feet or abutting I-35:
2 square feet per lineal foot of building or tenant frontage

Quantity Allowed

2 per development, but not to exceed 1 per lot

1 per lot, or 2 for through-lots

Maximum Sign Area

40 square feet per sign

Quantity Allowed

Maximum Sign Area

Monument Signs

80 square feet per sign

Maximum Sign Height

15 feet

Sign Setback

5 feet from any property line

100 square feet per sign

Freeway-Oriented Signs
Quantity Allowed

--

1 for each lot adjacent to I-35 right-of-way

Maximum Sign Area

--

150 square feet per sign, using sign area Formula B as defined herein this chapter

Maximum Sign Height

--

30 feet measured from the grade of the main interstate travel lane immediately adjacent to the sign,
but in no case shall exceed 60 feet in height measured from the sign grade. Entrance and exit ramps shall not be considered main travel lanes.

Sign Setback

--

5 feet from any property line

Directional Signs
2 per access to site, legible from public street or adjacent property

Quantity Allowed

4 square feet per sign using formula B as defined herein this chapter

Maximum Sign Area

8 square feet per sign, using formula B as defined herein this chapter

Maximum Sign Height

8 feet

Sign Setback

5 feet from any property line

Drive-Thru Facility Signs
Quantity Allowed

--

3 per drive-thru lane

Maximum Sign Area

--

60 square feet of total sign area per drive-thru lane

Maximum Sign Height

--

8 feet

Sign Setback

--

5 feet from any property line

Temporary Signs
Quantity Allowed

Zoning District
AG / RL / RM / RH

32 square feet per sign
12 feet

6 feet
5 feet from any property line

Sign Setback
Flags

BP / LI / HI
2 per lot

1 per lot

Maximum Sign Area
Maximum Sign Height

UP / NMU / CMU / NC / CC / CU

Zoning District
AG / RL / RM / RH

UP / NMU / CMU / NC / CC / CU

BP / LI / HI

Quantity Allowed

4 per lot

4 per lot

Maximum Area

15 square feet per flag

32 square feet per flag

Maximum Height

8 feet unless fixed to a flagpole, then 35 feet

10 feet unless fixed to a flagpole, then 45 feet

Setback

5 feet from any property line

Page 103 of 146

CHAPTER 196
ZONING ORDINANCE
NONCONFORMITIES, CONDITIONAL AND SPECIAL USES, EXCEPTIONS, AND AMENDMENTS
196.01 NONCONFORMING USES AND STRUCTURES. Within the various districts established by this Zoning Ordinance, or
amendments that may later be adopted, there exist structures and uses of land and structures which were lawful prior to the adoption of
this Zoning Ordinance but which would now be prohibited, regulated or restricted under the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance. It is
the intent of this Zoning Ordinance to permit these nonconformities to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their
survival. Such uses are declared to be incompatible with permitted uses in the districts involved. It is further the intent of this Zoning
Ordinance that such nonconformities shall not be enlarged upon, expanded, or extended.
1. Determination of Nonconforming Status. A property owner may request a determination of the lawful status of a
nonconforming use or structure from the Zoning Administrator.
A. The burden of establishing that any nonconforming use or structure is lawful shall be upon the owner of the nonconforming
use or structure and not the City.
B. A determination may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment under the provisions of Chapter 197.01.
2. Any existing, nonconforming use which was not a lawful nonconforming use under the previous Zoning Ordinance shall not
be authorized to continue as a nonconforming use pursuant to this Ordinance, or amendments thereto, and shall be considered an
unlawful use.
3. Permits Previously Issued. Nothing herein contained shall require any change in the overall layout, plans, construction, size,
or designated use of any structure or part thereof for which approvals and required permits have been granted before the enactment
of this Ordinance provided that the construction of said building in conformance with such plans shall have been started prior to the
effective date of this Ordinance and completion thereof carried on in a normal manner and not discontinued for reasons other than
those beyond the builder’s control.
4. Maintenance. Any structure existing on the effective date of this Ordinance and not in conformance with this Chapter may be
maintained in a safe condition, but no alteration, modification, or improvement of said structure shall occur, unless installed in
conformance with this Chapter.
5. Nonconforming Uses. Any lawful use which becomes nonconforming under the terms of this Ordinance may be continued so
long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following provisions:
A. A conforming structure devoted to a nonconforming use may not be enlarged, extended, reconstructed, altered, or relocated
on the site, unless the use is changed to a use permitted in the district.
B. No nonconforming use located outside of a structure shall be enlarged or increased to occupy a greater area of land than
was occupied at the effective date of adoption or amendment of this Ordinance.
C. Any existing residential use in any nonresidential district which is considered nonconforming by this Chapter may be
structurally altered or enlarged by issuance of a Special Exception by the Board of Adjustment.
(1) This modification shall be limited to patios, decks, garages, and minor building additions.
(2) Any addition to a principal structure shall adhere to the lot area, lot coverage, frontage, width, yard, height, and parking
requirements of the district in which it is located.
(3) Any modification to an accessory structure shall follow the provisions of Chapter191.07.
(4) When evaluating a special exception request, the Board of Adjustment may consider the following:
a.

The length of time before a transition to conforming use may occur

b.

The enhancement made to habitability

c.

The maintenance and upkeep of the property

d. The effect the improvements may have upon the development of adjacent properties according to their current
zoning.
D. Any nonconforming use shall not be moved in whole or in part to any other portion of the lot or parcel which was not
occupied by such use at the effective date of adoption or amendment of this Ordinance unless such movement shall bring the
nonconformance into compliance with this Ordinance.
E. If any nonconforming use ceases for any reason for a period of more than six (6) months, any subsequent use of land shall
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conform to district regulations for the district in which such land is located. Disconnection of any services, including but not
limited to water, sewer, or electric, for a period of more than six (6) months shall be considered a cease of use for the purposes
of this provision.
6. Nonconforming Structures. Where a lawful nonconforming structure or building exists at the effective date of adoption or
amendment of this Ordinance, such structure may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following
provisions:
A. No such building or structure may be enlarged or altered in a way which increases its nonconformity.
B. If the site improvements on an existing building site do not conform to the requirements of this Ordinance, the use of the
site cannot be expanded or new buildings constructed, unless the site improvements are brought into conformance with this
Ordinance.
C. In the event municipal acquisition of right-of-way causes an existing structure to be in violation of the setback or lot area
provisions of the zoning code, said property shall be exempt from the provisions in Paragraph B and D of this Subsection to
the extent said violation is caused by right-of-way acquisition, subject to the following provisions:
(1) Any property subject to a change of zoning subsequent to municipal acquisition of right-of-way shall no longer be
exempt as described above and must comply with the setbacks of the district or otherwise be considered nonconforming.
(2) Nothing within this provision shall be construed to permit any obstruction which is otherwise determined herein to be
a hazard.
D. Destruction.
(1) Should any legal nonconforming structure be destroyed by any means to an extent of 60 percent or more of its
replacement cost at the time of its destruction, exclusive of the foundations, it shall not be reconstructed except in
conformity with the provisions of this ordinance.
(2) If the structure is less than 60 percent destroyed above the foundation, it may be reconstructed and used as prior to the
event, provided it is done within six (6) months of such event, and is built of similar materials.
196.02 CONDITIONAL AND SPECIAL USE STANDARDS
1. Applicability. Conditional Uses are reviewed and approved by the Director or his/her designee pursuant to Section 196.02.8.
and Special Uses are reviewed and approved by the Zoning Board of Adjustment pursuant to Section 196.02.7. Uses shown as
Conditional "C" or Special "S" on use tables 190.20.04-1, 190.20.05-1, and 190.20.06-1 may only be approved if they meet the
standards of this Section and all other applicable standards of the Municipal Code. These standards apply when:
A. Establishment. A use is established; or
B. Structure Expansion. An existing structure is expanded by more than 10 percent of the gross floor area devoted to the use;
or
C. Use Expansion. There is an expansion of the use to or within an existing building, in an outdoor area devoted to the use,
or a combination thereof.
2. Purpose. This Section provides for compatibility among land uses through the imposition of standards, limitations, and
conditions.
3. Validity. The authorization of a conditional use and approval of a special use permit is valid for a period of one year from the
date of issuance, within which:
A. Building Permit. A building permit must be issued and construction must begin and thereafter diligently pursued to
completion; or
B. Certificate of Occupancy. A certificate of occupancy is obtained and the use is commenced.
4. Authorization and Expiration. A special use permit may only authorize the use for which the permit was issued, which will
automatically expire and cease to be of any force or effect if the use, for any reason, is discontinued for a period of six consecutive
months or more.
5. Standards for all Conditional and Special Uses. An application for a conditional or special use may be authorized if, in addition
to the standards of this Section, it is demonstrated that:
A. Plans. The proposed use in its proposed location will not conflict with the implementation of adopted plans; and
B. Compatibility. The use is compatible with surrounding land uses and the natural environment and will not materially
detract from the character of the immediate area or negatively affect the anticipated development, (e.g., creating a critical mass
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of similar uses that may discourage permitted uses by making the vicinity less desirable for them).
C. Property Value. The proposed special use will not cause substantial injury to the value of other property in the
neighborhood in which it is to be located.
D. Neighborhood Context. The location and size of the special use, the nature and intensity of the operation involved in or
conducted in connection with it, and the location of the site with respect to streets giving access to it are such that the special
use will not dominate the immediate neighborhood so as to prevent development and use of neighboring property in accordance
with the applicable zoning district regulations. In determining whether the special use will so dominate the immediate
neighborhood, consideration shall be given to:
(1) The location, nature and height of buildings, structures, walls and fences on the site; and
(2) The nature and extent of landscaping and screening on the site.
E. Parking and Loading. Off-street parking and loading areas will be provided in accordance with the standards set out in
Chapter 194.01. Such areas will be screened from adjoining residential uses pursuant to Chapter 194.02, and located so as to
protect such residential uses from any injurious effect.
F.

Infrastructure. Adequate utility, drainage, and other such necessary facilities have been or will be provided.

G. Access. Adequate access roads or entrance and exit drives will be provided and shall be so designed to prevent traffic
hazards and to minimize traffic congestion in public streets and alleys.
H. Other. Any other standards for special uses that are specifically identified in this Ordinance.
K. The Board shall not grant a special use permit unless, in each specific case, it makes specific written findings of fact, based
upon the particular evidence presented to it, that all the following standards have been met:
6. Specific Standards for Individual Use. In order for approval of all Conditional Use Permits and Special Use Permits, the
following conditions must be met for each specific use:
A. Accessory Dwelling Unit
(1) A single accessory dwelling unit may be located only on a lot with an existing single-family home and may be either
attached or detached.
(2) An accessory dwelling unit shall comply with all applicable building regulations as defined in Chapter 103A of the
State Code.
(3) An accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed one thousand square feet or fifty percent of the size of the single-family
residence, whichever is larger.
B. Amusement Enterprise.
(1) Any amusement enterprise establishment shall be located at least 200 feet from any R district boundary.
C. Animal Services Facility.
(1) Any exercising runway for an animal services facility or similar use shall be at least 200 feet from any R district
boundary.
D. Automotive Parts, Supplies, and Accessory Sales.
(1) All merchandise sold or services performed shall be within an enclosed building or structure.
(2) This use specifically excludes automotive service and repair shops, body and fender shops, and junk, scrap, or salvage
yards.
E. Automotive Service and Repair, Minor.
(1) This use shall not be construed to include automotive, tractor or machinery wrecking and rebuilding, and used parts
yards.
(2) All vehicle repair work shall take place within a fully-enclosed building.
F.

Bar, Tavern, or Lounge.
(1) This use shall provide a minimum 300-foot separation from property line to property line from a place of worship,
primary or secondary school, or an RL, RM, or RH Zoning District.

G. Bed and Breakfast Inn or Home.
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(1) Meals for Guests. Meals shall be provided to overnight guests only.
(2) Parking and Traffic. The use shall not create parking or traffic congestion or otherwise unreasonably interfere with
the peace and enjoyment of surrounding homes as a place of residence.
(3) Buffering. All off-street parking shall be fully screened from the view of the public and adjacent properties with a
Type ‘B’ landscape buffer.
H. Building or Development Contractor Equipment Facility (with outdoor storage)
(1) Outdoor storage of inoperable or unsafe vehicles constituting a junk, scrap, or salvage yard is prohibited.
(2) Outdoor storage of equipment or materials shall be so located and screened, fenced, or landscaped to comply with a
type “C” screen as described in Chapter 194.02 to prevent visibility of such storage from all adjoining property lines and
street right-of-way.
I.

Car Wash
(1) All mechanical equipment, excluding vacuum units, shall be enclosed within a building.
(2) A Type ‘C’ landscape buffer shall be required adjacent to an abutting residential district or use.
(3) Bay access shall be oriented, and/or screen walls shall be provided, to prevent headlights from shining onto any
abutting residential districts or use.
(4) Accessory equipment (e.g., vacuum facilities) shall be set back a minimum of 20 feet from any abutting residential
district or use.

J.

Fuel Station.
(1) A Type ‘C’ landscape buffer shall be required adjacent to any abutting R district or use.
(2) Fuel pump island canopies shall be connected to or integrated into the architectural design of the building in terms of
color, cladding, roofing and roof pitch.
(3) Refueling or delivery trucks shall not take ingress and egress from a residential street.
(4) If the use includes a car wash as an accessory use, then the standards of Chapter 196.02.6.I. shall apply.

K. Gas Station
(1) A Type ‘C’ landscape buffer shall be required adjacent to any abutting R district or use.
(2) Fuel pump island canopies shall be connected to or integrated into the architectural design of the building in terms of
color, cladding, roofing and roof pitch.
(3) Refueling or delivery trucks shall not take ingress and egress from a residential street.
(4) If the use includes a car wash as an accessory use, then the standards of Chapter 196.02.6.I. shall apply.
(5) Minor automotive repairs may be included as an accessory use, in accordance with Chapter 196.02.6.E., but not as the
principal use.
L. Heavy Industrial, Generally
(1) All principal or accessory structures containing a use permitted only in the HI District shall be located at least 200 feet
from any R or NC District and not less than 100 feet from any other district except an LI District.
(2) Outdoor storage of equipment or materials shall be so located and screened, fenced, or landscaped to comply with a
type “C’ screen as described in Chapter 194.02 to prevent visibility of such storage from all adjoining property lines and
street right-of-way.
M. Home Occupations.
(1) Such use shall be conducted entirely within a dwelling and solely by members of the family residing in the same
dwelling, and shall not exceed one-half of the floor area of one floor.
(2) No exterior indications of the home occupation shall be permitted.
(3) Such use shall not require mechanical equipment not customary in dwellings or cause or produce unreasonable noise,
vibration, smoke, dust, odors, heat, or glare, or in any way be detrimental to the neighborhood.
(4) Such use shall not substantially increase traffic in the neighborhood.
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N. Junk, Scrap, or Salvage Yard.
(1) The yard shall be completely enclosed with a wall or fence not less than six feet in height and completely obscuring
the activity, which has no more than one opening for each 200 feet of length facing public right-of-way.
(2) In addition to the wall or fence required in 196.02(7.) (O)(1), landscaping shall be provided to comply with a type
“C” screen as described in Chapter 194.02.
(3) The best practical disposal of refuse matter or water-carried waste shall be employed, and the abatement of obnoxious
or offensive odor, dust, smoke, gas, noise, or similar nuisances shall be required.
(4) All principal or accessory structures shall be located at least 200 feet from any R district boundary; and not less than
100 feet from any other district boundary.
O. Outdoor Display
(1) Motor vehicles which are kept for resale to the general public by a licensed dealer are not required to be screened from
adjacent properties or street right-of-way.
(2) The outdoor display of merchandise or products shall not interfere with any site plan requirements listed in Chapter
192.02, such as minimum parking requirements, required ingress/egress, or pedestrian access.
(3) The Department Director shall have the authority to determine screening requirements for any merchandise or products
held for resale to the general public.
P.

Pawnbroker.
(1) The establishment shall meet all requirements provided in Chapter 141.18, Permitted Locations, of the Ankeny
Municipal Code.

Q. Seasonal Sales Area.
(1) An approved site plan depicting the proposed seasonal sales area approved by the Development Services Department
Director shall be required.
(2) The outdoor display of merchandise or products shall not interfere with any site plan requirements listed in Chapter
192.02, such as minimum parking requirements, required ingress/egress, or pedestrian access.
R. Self-Service Storage.
(1) Only self-storage facilities accessed by a common building entrance are allowed, and may not include access to storage
units via individual exterior doors.
S. Service Area, Outdoor. With the exception of properties located within Entertainment Districts as defined and regulated
in Chapter 143 of the Ankeny Municipal Code, premises with a beer permit or liquor control license not contained within a
completely enclosed and covered structure and located less than five hundred feet from a residential zoning district; provided
the following standards are met:
(1) The applicant meets all other requirements listed in Chapter 130 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
(2) The Special Use Permit, if granted, shall expire one year after the grant thereof, subject to renewal. The applicant shall
file a letter of request for renewal at least 60 days prior to the expiration date of the granted permit. The applicant shall set
forth that said permittee has and will continue to comply with all the requirements of this Zoning Ordinance and with the
conditions attached to the issuance of the original permit or subsequent modifications or such other information as may be
required by said Board. At any time within the 60 days prior to said anniversary date and after notice to the permittee, the
Board may hold a hearing on whether or not such permit shall be amended, modified or revoked for any reasons which
would cause the Board to deny or attach conditions to the grant of such permit the same as if the application were first
being heard. In the event such hearing is not held and the statement herein is filed as required, such shall be automatically
renewed for an additional period of one year on the same conditions. Nothing contained in this Section shall prevent the
Board, after notice and hearing, from at any time revoking a permit because of violations of its terms. Notice hereunder
shall be in writing and mailed by certified mail to the permittee at the address of the premises concerned in the permit,
such mailing to be at least ten days prior to the hearing.
(3) Any permittee issued a Special Use Permit in accordance with Chapter 196.02 must comply with, and enforcement
will be in accordance with, Municipal Code Chapter 44, Noise Control. When a Noise Permit is issued in accordance with
Chapter 44, hours of operation for the event shall be consistent with the hours approved by the Special Use Permit and
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those hours shall be specifically set out in the Noise Permit.
(4) The Board may exact any other regulations and assurances, covenants, and warranties as may be necessary to protect
the rights of the neighboring residents, including but not limited to the following: (a) hours of operation; (b) lighting; and
(c) screening.
(5) Notwithstanding anything contained elsewhere in this Code, a Special Event Permit does not need to be obtained from
the Board of Adjustment for a one-time event that is otherwise required to obtain a Special Event Permit in accordance
with Chapter 11 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
T. Sexually Oriented Business.
(1) The establishment shall meet all requirements provided in Chapter 140.12, Location Restrictions, of the Ankeny
Municipal Code.
U. Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems.
(1) Intent. The intent of this Section is to balance the need for clean, renewable energy resources and the necessity to
protect the public health, safety, and welfare of the community. The City finds these regulations are necessary to ensure
that Small Wind Energy Conversion Systems are appropriately designed, sited, and installed.
(2) Definitions. For the purposes of this Section, the following definitions shall apply:
a. “Height, total system” means the height above grade of the system, including the generating unit and the highest
vertical extension of any blades or rotors.
b. “Lot” (or Parcel) means any legally established lot or parcel which contains or could contain a permitted or
permitted conditional principal use as provided by Section 190.03(54) of this Code.
c. “Off grid” means an electrical system that is not connected to utility distribution and transmission facilities or to
any building or structure that is connected.
d. “Shadow flicker” means changing light intensity caused by sunlight through the moving blades of a wind energy
conversion system.
e. “Small Wind Energy Conversion System” (SWECS) means a wind energy conversion system which has a
nameplate rated capacity of up to fifteen (15) kilowatts for residential uses and districts and up to one hundred (100)
kilowatts for commercial and industrial districts and which is incidental and subordinate to a principal use on the same
parcel. A system is considered a SWECS only if it supplies electrical power solely for use by the owner on the site,
except that when a parcel on which the system is installed also receives electrical power supplied by a utility company,
excess electrical power generated and not presently needed by the owner for on- site use may be used by the utility
company in accordance with Section 199, Chapter 15.11(5) of the Iowa Administrative Code, as amended from time
to time.
f. “Small Wind Energy Conversion System, free standing” means a SWECS which is elevated by means of a
monopole tower only and is not located on another supporting structure except that the tower shall have an
appropriately constructed concrete base. Guyed, lattice, or other non-monopole style towers shall not meet this
definition.
g. “Small Wind Energy Conversion System, horizontal axis” means a small wind energy conversion system that has
blades which rotate through a horizontal plane.
h. “Small Wind Energy Conversion System, building mounted” means a SWECS which is securely fastened to any
portion of a principal building in order to achieve desired elevation, whether attached directly to the principal building
or attached to a tower structure which is in turn fastened to the principal building.
i. “Small Wind Energy Conversion System, vertical axis” means a small wind energy conversion system that has
blades which rotate through a vertical plane.
j. “Tower” means the vertical component of a wind energy conversion system that elevates the wind turbine
generator and attached blades above the ground. No other apparatus or mechanical/electronic equipment, such as
cellular antennas, microwave dishes, or satellite dishes shall be attached to a SWECS tower.
k. “Wind Energy Conversion System” (WECS) means an aggregation of parts including the foundation, base, tower,
generator, rotor, blades, supports, guy wires and accessory equipment such as utility interconnect and battery banks,
etc., in such configuration as necessary to convert the power of wind into mechanical or electrical energy, e.g., wind
charger, windmill or wind turbine.

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l. “Wind turbine generator” means the component of a wind energy conversion system that transforms mechanical
energy from the wind into electrical energy.
(3) General Regulations.
a. Special Use: A Small Wind Energy Conversion System (SWECS) shall be allowed only as a Special Use as
prescribed in Chapter 196.02 of this Zoning Ordinance, and shall be accessory to a permitted principal use. A site plan
must also be approved for a SWECS as prescribed in Chapter 196.02, prior to construction. A WECS that does not
meet the definition of a SWECS is prohibited within the City of Ankeny.
b. Zoning: SWECS may be allowed in all zoning districts subject to the provisions contained herein and elsewhere
within this Municipal Code.
c. Permit Required: It is unlawful to construct, erect, install, alter or locate any SWECS within the City of Ankeny,
unless a Special Use permit has been obtained from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The permitted Special Use
Permit may be revoked by resolution of the Zoning Board of Adjustment any time the approved system does not
comply with the rules set forth in this Chapter and the conditions imposed by the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The
owner/operator of the SWECS must also obtain any other permits required by other federal, state and local
agencies/departments prior to constructing the system.
d.

Number of Systems Per Zoning Lot:
a. Residential Use: No more than one freestanding SWECS may be placed on any parcel or lot for residential
use. Building mounted SWECS shall be prohibited on any parcel or lot containing a one- or two-family use.
b. Commercial, Industrial, and Institutional Use: No more than one freestanding SWECS may be placed any
parcel or lot with a commercial, industrial, or institutional use that is taller than the tallest existing principal
building located on said parcel or lot. Additional freestanding SWECS which conform to setback requirements
contained herein and which are no taller than the tallest existing principal building located on said parcel or lot
may be allowed. Additional building mounted SWECS may be allowed within the parameters herein below.
c. Mixed Use: Any building containing both residential and commercial uses or described as a “Mixed Use”
building, shall be considered to be a commercial use for the purposes of this Section.

e. Tower: Only monopole towers shall be permitted for freestanding SWECS. Lattice, guyed or towers of any other
type shall not be considered to be in compliance with this Section. SWECS towers shall be utilized for the sole purpose
of supporting wind energy conversion systems, not other uses shall be permitted on SWECS towers.
f. Color: Freestanding SWECS shall be a neutral color such as white, sky blue or light gray. Building mounted
SWECS shall match the color of the building on which it is mounted. Other colors may be allowed at the discretion
of the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The surface shall be non-reflective.
g.

Lighting: No lights shall be installed on the tower, unless required to meet FAA regulations.

h.

Signage: No signage or advertising of any kind shall be permitted on the tower or any associated structures.

i.

Climbing Apparatus: The tower must be designed to prevent climbing within the first ten feet.

j. Maintenance: Facilities shall be well maintained in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and shall
remain in an operational condition that poses no potential safety hazard nor is in violation of any provisions contained
within this Section or elsewhere within this Municipal Code.
k. Displacement of Parking Prohibited: The location of the SWECS shall not result in the net loss of required parking
as specified elsewhere in this Municipal Code.
l. Utility Notification: The City shall notify the utility of receipt of an application to install an interconnected
customer-owned generator. Off-grid systems shall be exempt from this notification requirement.
m. Interconnection: If connected to the grid, the SWECS shall meet the requirements for interconnection and
operation as set forth by the utility and the Iowa Utilities Board. No permit of any kind shall be issued until the City
of Ankeny has been provided with a copy of an executed interconnection agreement. Off-grid systems shall be exempt
from this requirement.
n. Restriction on Use of Electricity Generated: A SWECS shall be used exclusively to supply electrical power to the
owner for on-site consumption, except that excess electrical power generated by the SWECS and not presently needed
for use by the owner may be used by the utility company in accordance with Section 199, Chapter 15.11(5) of the
Iowa Administrative Code, as may be subsequently amended.

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o. Noise: A SWECS shall be designed, installed, and operated so that the noise generated does not exceed the
maximum noise levels established in Chapter 44 of the Ankeny Municipal Code.
p. Shadow Flicker: No SWECS shall be installed and operated so to cause a shadow flicker to fall on or in any
existing residential structure.
q. Safety Controls: Each SWECS shall be equipped with both an automatic and manual braking, governing, or
feathering system to prevent uncontrolled rotation, over-speeding, and excessive pressure on the tower structure, rotor
blades, or turbine components. Said automatic braking system shall also be capable of stopping turbine rotation in the
event of a power outage so as to prevent back feeding of the grid.
r. Shut Off: A clearly marked and easily accessible shut off for the wind turbine will be required as determined by
the Building Official of the City of Ankeny.
s. Electromagnetic Interference: All SWECS shall be designed and constructed so as not to cause radio and
television interference. If it is determined that the SWECS is causing electromagnetic interference, the owner/operator
shall take the necessary corrective action to eliminate this interference including relocation or removal of the facilities,
subject to the approval of the City of Ankeny. A permit granting a SWECS may be revoked if electromagnetic
interference from the SWECS becomes evident.
t. Wind Access Easements: The enactment of this Section does not constitute the granting of an easement by the
City of Ankeny. The SWECS owner/operator shall have the sole responsibility to acquire any covenants, easements,
or similar documentation to assure and/or protect access to sufficient wind as may or may not be necessary to operate
the SWECS.
u. Insurance: The owner/operator of a SWECS must demonstrate and maintain liability insurance of not less than
$1,000,000 coverage.
v. Engineer Certification: Applications for any freestanding or building mounted SWECS shall be accompanied by
standard drawings of the wind turbine support structure, including the tower, base, and footings, or existing structure
if applicable. An engineering analysis of all components of the SWECS showing compliance with the applicable
regulations and certified by an Iowa licensed professional engineer shall also be submitted.
w. Installation: Installation must be done according to manufacturer’s recommendations. All wiring and electrical
work must be completed according to the applicable building and electric codes. All electrical components must meet
code recognized test standards.
x. Removal: If the SWECS remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of six (6) months, the
system shall be deemed to be abandoned. The SWECS owner/operator shall remove the abandoned system at their
expense. Removal of the system includes the entire structure, transmission equipment and fencing from the property
excluding foundations. Non-function or lack of operation may be proven by reports from the interconnected utility.
For off-grid systems the City of Ankeny shall have the right to enter the property at its sole discretion to determine if
the off-grid system is generating power. Such generation may be proven by use of an amp meter. The SWECS
owner/operator and successors shall make available to the City of Ankeny all reports to and from the purchaser of
energy from the SWECS if requested. If removal of towers and appurtenant facilities is required, the City of Ankeny
shall notify the SWECS owner/operator. Removal shall be completed within six (6) months of written notice to remove
being provided to the owner/operator by the City of Ankeny.
y. Right of Entrance: As a condition of approval of a Special Use Permit an applicant seeking to install SWECS
shall be required to sign a petition and waiver agreement which shall be recorded and run with the land granting
permission to the City of Ankeny to enter the property to remove the SWECS pursuant to the terms of approval and
to assure compliance with the other conditions set forth in the permit. Removal shall be at the expense of the
owner/operator and the cost may be assessed against the property.
z. Feasibility Study: A feasibility study shall be made of any site prior to installing a wind turbine. The feasibility
study shall include measuring actual wind speeds at the proposed turbine site for at least three (3) months.
(4) Bulk Regulations.
a. Setbacks: The minimum distance between any freestanding SWECS and any property line shall be a distance that
is equivalent to:
a.

150% of the total system height for towers up to 65 feet in height.

b.

200% of the total system height for towers that are 65 feet and up to 80 feet in height.

c.

250% of the total system height for towers that are 80 feet and up to 100 feet in height.
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d.

300% of the total system height for towers that are 100 feet and taller in height.

The setback shall be measured from the property line to the point of the SWECS closest to the property line.
The required setback for any building mounted SWECS shall be equal to the required setback of the principal building
to which the SWECS is to be attached at such time that the application to install a building mounted SWECS is
received by the City of Ankeny.
b. Maximum Height: Height shall be measured from the ground to the top of the tower, including the wind turbine
generator and blades.
a.

For lots of more than three (3) and fewer than five (5) acres, the maximum height shall be 65 feet.

b.

For lots of five (5) and up to forty (40) acres, the maximum height shall be 80 feet.

c.

For lots of forty (40) acres and up to one hundred (100) acres, the maximum height shall be 100 feet.

d.

For lots that are one hundred (100) acres and larger, the maximum height shall be 140 feet.

e. Building mounted SWECS may be a maximum of 10 feet higher than the point of attachment to the building
on which they are attached.
c.

Minimum Lot Size.
a.

The minimum lot size for a freestanding SWECS shall be three (3) acres.

b. The minimum lot size for a building mounted SWECS shall be one (1) acre for any building of less than five
(5) stories in height.
c. There shall be no minimum lot size for building mounted SWECS to be mounted on buildings of five (5) or
more stories in height.
d.

Blade Length. The length of each individual blade shall not exceed 50% of the height of the tower.

e. Clearance of Blade. No portion of a horizontal axis SWECS blade shall extend within 30 feet of the ground. No
portion of a vertical axis SWECS shall extend within 10 feet of the ground. No blades may extend over parking areas,
driveways or sidewalks. No blade may extend within 20 feet of the nearest tree, structure or above ground utility
facilities.
f.

Location.
a.

No part of a SWECS shall be located within or over drainage, utility or other established easements.

b. A freestanding SWECS shall be located entirely in the rear yard for residential uses. For a freestanding
SWECS for all other uses, the location shall be appropriate to the property and setting and shall be determined
through the special use permit and site plan review process.
c. A SWECS shall be located in compliance with the guidelines of applicable Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) regulations as amended from time to time.
d. No SWECS shall be constructed so that any part thereof can extend within 20 feet laterally of an overhead
electrical power line (excluding secondary electrical service lines or service drops). The setback from
underground electric distribution lines shall be at least five (5) feet.
e. Building mounted SWECS shall be prohibited unless the owner has obtained a written analysis from an Iowa
licensed structural engineer determining that installation of a SWECS will not cause damage to the structure and
that the SWECS can be securely fastened so as to not pose a hazard caused by detaching from the structure.
(5) Application Required. Application for SWECS shall be made on forms provided by the City of Ankeny. No action
may be taken regarding requests for SWECS until completed applications have been filed and fees paid.
V. Storage, Outdoor.
(1) Outdoor storage of inoperable or unsafe vehicles constituting a junk, scrap, or salvage yard is prohibited.
(2) Outdoor storage of equipment or materials shall be so located and screened, fenced, or landscaped to comply with a
type “C” screen as described in Chapter 194.02 to prevent visibility of such storage from all street right-of-way and
appropriate adjoining property lines as determined by the Department Director.
W. Swimming Pool.

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(1) All swimming pools located in residential districts shall be located in the side or rear yard and shall be setback a
minimum of four feet (4) from any property line.
X. Temporary Concrete Batch Plants or Temporary Asphalt Batch Plants or Concrete or Asphalt Recycling Plants under the
following conditions:
(1) Permitted until termination of such project or projects.
(2) The contractor shall submit a routing of trucks to and from the proposed plant to the City Engineer as a condition prior
to approval.
(3) The contractor shall be required to restore the area to its original productive state.
(4) Such facility shall only be allowed access via arterial or collector roads and highways. Access via local residential
and/or collector roads serving residential areas shall be prohibited.
(5) Entire site must be 1,000 feet from a residential dwelling.
Y. Temporary Seasonal Uses, such as haunted houses and corn mazes, subject to the following conditions:
(1) The temporary use is limited to a maximum of 30 days.
(2) The temporary use is compatible with adjacent uses and will not adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood by
means of odor, noise, dust or other nuisance.
(3) The site of the temporary use will be at least five (5) acres in size.
(4) Adequate off-street parking is provided on-site.
(5) Increased traffic by the temporary use will not adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood or City at large.
(6) All signage shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 195.04 of the Municipal Code.
(7) The temporary use is consistent with all Comprehensive Plan, Municipal Code and City and State regulations.
(8) The property owner/applicant shall obtain and maintain all necessary permits and licenses required for the use, as
required elsewhere in the Municipal Code or by law.
Z. Utility, Major.
(1) The proposed location, design, construction, and operation of the particular use adequately safeguards the health,
safety, and general welfare of persons residing or working in adjoining or surrounding property.
(2) Such use shall not impair an adequate supply of light and air to surrounding property.
(3) Such use shall not unduly increase congestion on streets or public danger of fire or flood, and shall not endanger public
safety.
(4) Such use shall not diminish or impair established property values in adjoining or surrounding property.
(5) Such use shall be in accord with the intent, purpose, and spirit of this Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan
of the City.
AA. Utility, Minor.
(1) The proposed location, design, construction, and operation of the particular use adequately safeguards the health,
safety, and general welfare of persons residing or working in adjoining or surrounding property.
(2) Such use shall not impair an adequate supply of light and air to surrounding property.
(3) Such use shall not unduly increase congestion on streets or public danger of fire or flood, and shall not endanger public
safety.
(4) Such use shall not diminish or impair established property values in adjoining or surrounding property.
(5) Such use shall be in accord with the intent, purpose, and spirit of this Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Plan
of the City.
BB. Wireless Telecommunication Facility.
(1) Purpose. It is the intent of this Ordinance to provide fair regulation among providers of functionally equivalent services
and to allow for the provision of personal wireless communication facilities.

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(2) Scope. The provisions of this Section apply to, and apply only to, the placement, construction and modification of that
which is called "personal wireless service facilities" in Section 704 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996.
(3) Definitions. For the purpose of this Section, the following definitions shall apply:
a. “Antenna Height” means the vertical distance measured from the base of the antenna support structure at grade
to the highest point of the structure. If the support structure is on a sloped grade, then the average between the highest
and lowest grades of the support structure shall be used in calculating the antenna height.
b. “Antenna Support Structure” means any tower or any other structure that supports a device used in the
transmitting or receiving of radio frequency energy.
c. “Cell Site” means a tract or parcel of land that contains the wireless communication antenna, its support structure,
accessory structure(s), and parking and may include other uses associated with and necessary for wireless
communication transmission.
d.

“Tall Structure” means any structure the top of which is more than 50 feet above grade.

(4) Special Permit Not Required. A cell site with antenna that is attached to an existing communications tower, smoke
stack, water tower, or other tall structure is permitted in all zoning districts. The height of the antenna shall not exceed the
height of the existing tall structure by more than 20 feet. If the antenna is to be mounted on an existing tall structure, a Site
Plan shall not be required.
(5) Special Permit Required. A cell site with antenna that is neither mounted on an existing tall structure nor is more than
20 feet higher than the tall structure on which it is mounted shall not be permitted except pursuant to a Special Use Permit
issued by the Zoning Board of Adjustment pursuant to both Chapter 196.02 and the provisions of this Section.
(6) Action. Any request for authorization to place, construct, or modify personal wireless service facilities shall be acted
on within a reasonable time after the request is duly filed with the proper city office, considering the scope and nature of
such request. Any decision to deny a request to place, construct or modify personal wireless service facilities shall be in
writing and supported by evidence contained in a written record.
(7) Criteria. All wireless communication facilities must meet the following criteria:
a. Necessity. The wireless communications company shall demonstrate, using technological evidence, that the
antenna must be located where it is proposed in order to satisfy the antenna's function in the company's grid system.
b. Location. It is the intention that cell sites with antenna locate in areas containing commercial, industrial or
institutional land uses. Cell sites with antenna are discouraged from locating within or directly adjacent to, low-density
residential neighborhoods.
(8) Site Plan. A full site plan, as outlined in Chapter 192.02, shall be required for all cell sites requiring approval of a
Special Use Permit, showing the antenna, antenna support structure, building, fencing, buffering, landscaping, parking,
and access. Such site plan shall be submitted with the request for Special Use Permit.
(9) Setback. The minimum distance between the base of the antenna support structure and any property line shall be 35
feet.
(10) Structure Type. All antenna support structures shall be "stealth monopoles" except in Industrial Zoning Districts in
which regular monopole towers may be located. Lattice or guyed towers are prohibited in all Zoning Districts.
(11) Painting. Antenna support structures should be painted in such a manner as to reduce the visual impact and create a
harmonious appearance with its surroundings.
(12) Fencing. An opaque fence constructed of wood or masonry material, or other substantial material, that is consistent
with the existing structures on the proposed site and approved by the Zoning Board of Adjustment, shall be installed around
the antenna support structure and other equipment unless the antenna is mounted on an existing structure.
(13) Required Parking. If the cell site is fully automated, adequate parking shall be required for maintenance workers. If
the site is not automated, the number of required parking spaces shall equal the number of people on the largest shift.
(14) Ancillary Activities. All other uses and activities ancillary to the antenna and associated equipment (including a
business office, maintenance depot, vehicle storage, etc.) are prohibited from a cell site, unless otherwise permitted
pursuant to the regulations for the zoning district in which the cell site is located.
(15) Co-location Effort. If the wireless communications company proposes to build a tower (as opposed to mounting the
antenna on an existing tall structure), it shall demonstrate that it contacted the owners of tall structures within a one-quartermile radius of the site proposed, asked for permission to install the antenna on those tall structures, and was denied for
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reasons other than failure to agree on compensation. The Zoning Board of Adjustment may deny the permit if it concludes
that the applicant has not made a good faith effort to mount the antenna on an existing tall structure.
(16) Antenna Height and Co-Location. In order to reduce the number of antenna support structures needed in the
community in the future, the proposed support structure shall be designed to accommodate other users, including other
wireless communications companies and local police, fire and ambulance companies. The applicant shall demonstrate, to
the reasonable satisfaction of the Zoning Board of Adjustment that the antenna is the minimum height required to function
satisfactorily and provide for future co-location. No antenna that is taller than this minimum height shall be approved. In
addition, all cell sites shall comply with the height limitations outlined in Chapter 201.04 of the Ankeny Regional Airport
Zoning Code.
(17) Safety. The applicant shall demonstrate, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Zoning Board of Adjustment that the
proposed antenna and support structure are safe and the surrounding areas will not be negatively affected by support
structure failure, falling ice or other debris, or radio frequency interference. All support structures shall be fitted with anticlimbing devices, as approved by the manufacturers.
(18) FCC License. The wireless communication company shall provide proof that it is licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission.
(19) Air Safety. Support structures 200 feet in height or taller, or those near airports, shall meet all applicable Federal
Aviation Administration regulations.
(20) Changes. There shall be no change in the exterior appearance of a cell site, including any change in the profile of the
antenna support structure that is a departure from what was shown or represented in the initial application for the granted
special use permit. Additional antenna devices may be attached as provided for in Chapter 196.02.6.BB(4) as a means to
accomplish the objective of co-location as specified in Chapter 196.02.6.BB(15) and (16).
(21) Engineered Addition. If an additional antenna is installed on an existing antenna support structure, engineering data
and certification by a licensed professional engineer assuring that the installation is structurally sound within the standards
of good engineering practice shall be provided to the City staff.
(22) Removal. If a cell site, or any antenna support structure, is not used for a period of one year, it shall be the duty and
obligation of the party then in possession and control of the site to have the unused antenna support structure and any other
unused cell site apparatus completely dismantled and removed from the site.
7. Pre-Issuance Review; Special Use Permit. Before issuing any Special Use Permit for any of the above buildings or uses, the
Board of Adjustment shall review the conformity of the proposed building or use with the standards of the comprehensive plan and
with recognized principles of civic design, land use planning and landscape architecture. The Zoning Board of Adjustment may
approve the Special Use Permit as submitted or, before approval, may require that the applicant modify, alter, adjust or amend the
proposal as the Zoning Board of Adjustment deems necessary to the end that it preserves the intent and purpose of this Zoning
Ordinance to promote public health, safety, morals and the general welfare. The Board may impose conditions as may be necessary
to prevent or mitigate adverse effects upon other property. Such conditions shall be expressly set out in the resolution authorizing
the special use and in the permit. Violation of such conditions shall be a violation of this Ordinance.
8. Pre-Issuance Review; Conditional Use Permit. Before issuing any Conditional Use Permit for any of the above buildings or
uses, the Director or their designee shall review the conformity of the proposed building or use with the standards of the
comprehensive plan and with recognized principles of civic design, land use planning and landscape architecture. The Director may
approve the Conditional Use Permit as submitted or, before approval, may require that the applicant modify, alter, adjust or amend
the proposal as the Director deems necessary to the end that it preserves the intent and purpose of this Zoning Ordinance to promote
public health, safety, morals and the general welfare.
9. Application; Feasibility Evidence and Site Plan Required. Application for a Conditional Use Permit or a Special Use Permit
under the terms of this Section shall be accompanied by evidence concerning the feasibility of the proposed request and its effect
on surrounding property; and shall include a site plan defining the areas to be developed for buildings, the areas to be developed
for parking, the locations of sidewalks and driveways and the points of ingress and egress, including access streets where required,
the location and heights of walls, the location and type of landscaping, and the location, size and number of signs.
10. Changes; Resubmittal Required. In the event that a Conditional Use Permit or a Special Use Permit is granted under the terms
of this Section, any change thereafter in the approved use or site plan shall be resubmitted and considered in the same manner as
the original proposal.
196.03 EXCEPTIONS AND MODIFICATIONS.
1.

Existing Lots of Record – Yard Requirements. In any district where dwellings are permitted, a single-family dwelling may be
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located on any lot or plot of official record, recorded prior to the effective date of the Zoning Ordinance, irrespective of its area or
width; provided, however, if two or more lots or plots with continuous frontage in single ownership were of record prior to the
effective date of said ordinance, such lots shall be considered buildable only in combinations that most nearly approximate the lot
width and area requirements of the district in which located. The following yard requirements shall apply:
(1) The sum of the side yard widths of any such lot or plot shall not be less than thirty percent of the width of the lot, but in
no case less than ten percent (10%) of the width of the lot for any one side yard.
(2) The depth of the rear yard of any such lot need not exceed twenty percent of the depth of the lots, but in no case less than
20 feet.
2.

Yard Setback Exceptions. Exceptions to the required setbacks may be modified as follows:
A. All zone districts:
(1) Front Yard. Usual steps.
(2) Rear Yard. Elevated docks and usual steps.
(3) Side Yard. Elevated docks, air conditioning and/or heating units, and usual steps.
B. Residential Districts Only:
(1) Front Yard. Decks less than 36-inches in height which project not more than ten-feet into the required yard.
(2) Rear Yard.
a.

Unenclosed, above and below, decks or porches which project not more than 12 feet into the required rear yard.

b. Enclosed or covered decks, porches, sunrooms, and building additions which project not more than 12 feet into
the required rear yard, provided they are not more than 20 feet in width.
c. Egress window wells, cantilevers, and chimneys provided they do not project more than two (2) feet into the
required rear yard setback.
(3) Side Yard. Egress window wells, cantilevers, and chimneys provided they do not project more than two (2) feet into
the required side yard setback; however, cantilevers shall not be less than five (5) feet from any property line.
3. Residence Districts – Inaccessible Water and Sewer Lines. In any residence district where neither a public water supply nor a
public sanitary sewer is accessible, the lot area and frontage requirements shall be as follows: lot area, one acre; lot width at building
line, 130 feet. However, where a public water supply system is accessible, these requirements shall be one-half acre and 100 feet
respectively.
4. Approved Plats Not Meeting Minimum Requirements. In the event a plat which has been approved has one or more lots that
do not meet the minimum requirements for the district in which located, the following exceptions shall apply:
A. Front Yard – same as specified for the district in which located.
B. Lot Width and Side Yard – No lot shall be approved for building purposes having a width less than 40 feet, except as
otherwise provided in this Zoning Ordinance. Side yards shall be the same as specified for the district in which located.
C. Rear Yard – The rear yard may be reduced proportionately to the variance permitted from standard lot size, which will be
100 feet of depth for the purpose of this Section.
5. Yards – Unobstructed Opening to the Sky. Every part of a required yard shall be open to the sky unobstructed with any building
or structure, except for permitted accessory structures and for the ordinary projections of sills, belt courses, cornices and ornamental
features projecting in side and rear yards, but not to exceed 24 inches.
6. Side Yards – Mixed-Use Requirements. In instances where buildings are erected containing two or more uses housed vertically,
the required side yards for the first-floor use shall control.
196.04 AMENDMENTS.
1. Council’s Authority. The Council may from time to time, on its own action or on petition, after public notice and hearings as
provided by law, and after a report by the Plan and Zoning Commission, amend, supplement or change the boundaries or regulations
in this Zoning Ordinance or subsequently established, and such amendment shall not become effective except by the favorable vote
of a majority of all the members of the Council.
2. Additional Notices; Public Notification Signs. Any person who requests a land use plan amendment or rezoning of property
shall cause to be erected at all of the street frontages of the property a public notification sign, stating a notification message as
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prescribed by City staff, and intended to inform the public of the proposed change and the time and place of the hearing on said
change. Public notification signage will be black letters on a white sign board and will be installed in accordance with the following
minimum standard:

Speed Limit

Minimum Size

Lettering Height

Quantity Per Street Frontage

20 MPH to 35 MPH

2' x 2'

3 inches

one per 300 feet

36 MPH and greater

4' x 8'

6 inches

one per 1,000 feet

Such public notification signs shall be erected no less than seven days before the hearing before the Plan and Zoning Commission,
and shall remain in place until the final hearing before the City Council. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to ensure
that the signs are erected and maintained to be visible from the street rights-of-way in accordance with the provisions of this Section.
The failure on the part of the property owner to erect and maintain the public notification signs may be considered by the
Commission and Council, along with all other facts and circumstances, in determining whether the request for rezoning shall be
granted. The property owner shall remove the signage within seven days of the date of the final action on the rezoning or land use
plan amendment by the City Council. Any person who removes a public notification sign erected by the property owner, without
the property owner’s consent, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
3. Petition Requirements. Whenever any amendment or change is proposed to district boundaries which does not generally align
with the Future Land Use Map in the Comprehensive Plan, petitions will be required which clearly describe the property and its
boundaries for which the change or amendment is desired. The petitions should be duly signed by the owners of at least fifty-one
percent of the area of all real estate included within the boundaries of the amendment as described in said petitions and, in addition,
duly signed by the owners of sixty percent of the area of all real estate lying outside of said amendment boundary but within 300
feet of the boundary. Whenever any amendment or change is proposed to district boundaries which do align with the Future Land
Use Map in the Comprehensive Plan, a petition will only be required of the owners within the boundaries of the amendment as
described above. It shall be the duty of the Council to vote upon such petition within a reasonable time after the filing of such
petition with the Development Services Department.
4. Re-filing. In case the proposed amendment, supplement or change is disapproved by the Plan and Zoning Commission, or a
protest is presented duly signed by the owners of twenty percent or more either of the area of the lots included in such proposed
change, or of those immediately adjacent in the rear thereof, extending the depth of one lot not to exceed 200 feet therefrom, or of
those directly opposite thereto, extending the depth of one lot not to exceed 200 feet from the street frontage of such opposite lots,
such amendments shall not become effective except by the favorable vote of at least four-fifths of all members of the Council.
Whenever any petition for amendment, supplement or change of the zoning or regulations contained in this Zoning Ordinance or
subsequently established has been denied by the Council, then no new petition covering any of the same property or the same
property and additional property shall be filed with or considered by the Council until one year has elapsed from the date of the
filing of the first petition.
5. Filing Fees. Before any action shall be taken as provided in this Zoning Ordinance, the owner or owners of the property
proposed or recommended to be changed in the zoning district regulations or zoning district boundaries shall pay a fee as established
by City Council Resolution.

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CHAPTER 197
ZONING ORDINANCE
ADMINISTRATION
197.01 ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT.
1. Established. A Zoning Board of Adjustment is established which shall consist of five members. The terms of office of the
members of the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall be for five (5) years on a staggered basis and their appointment shall be made
by the Mayor, with the approval of the Council. Any member of the Board who shall thereafter be absent from three meetings of
the Board during any one calendar year, without good cause, shall be deemed to have vacated such office on the occasion of such
third absence. The Chairperson shall immediately report such vacancy to the Mayor who shall, with the approval of the Council,
fill such vacancy for the unexpired term.
2. Meetings. The meetings of the Zoning Board of Adjustment shall be held at the call of the Chairperson and at such other times
as the Board may determine. Such Chairperson, or in the absence of the Chairperson, the acting Chairperson, may administer oaths
and compel the attendance of witnesses. All meetings of the Board shall be open to the public. The Board shall keep minutes of its
proceedings, showing the vote of each member of each question, or if a member is absent or fails to vote, indicating such fact, and
shall keep records of its examinations and other official actions, all of which shall be immediately filed in the office of the Board
and shall be a public record. The presence of three members shall be necessary to constitute a quorum.
3.

Appeal Procedure.
A. Appeals to the Zoning Board of Adjustment may be taken by any person aggrieved or by any officer, department, board,
or bureau of the City affected by any decision of the Zoning Administrator. Such appeal shall be taken within ten days by filing
with the Development Services Department a notice of appeal specifying the grounds thereof. The Department shall forthwith
transmit to the Board all papers constituting the record upon which the action appealed from is taken. An appeal stays all
proceedings in furtherance of the action appealed from unless the Zoning Administrator certifies to the Board, after notice of
appeal has been filed with the Department, that by reason of the facts stated in the certificate, a stay would in the opinion of
the Zoning Administrator cause imminent peril to life or property. In such case, proceedings shall not be stayed otherwis