On the agenda: Arden Hills meeting — Data Center (May 26)

Address:

1245 W Highway 96
Arden Hills MN 55112
Phone:

Mayor:

651-792-7800

David Grant

Website :
www.cityofardenhills.org

Councilmembers:

Brenda Holden
Emily Rousseau
Tena Monson
Kurt Weber

City Council
Work Session Agenda
May 26, 2026
5:30 p.m.
City Hall
City Vision

Arden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting, strong residential
neighborhoods, vital business community, well - maintained infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our
long - standing tradition as a desirable City in which to live, work, and play.

Members of the public may attend a meeting in-person at City Hall or they may
view the meeting remotely on the City’s website using the below link. Meetings are
also broadcast on Cable Channel 16 for those that live in Arden Hills.
https://cityofardenhills.org/320/Watch-City-Meetings
Some Councilmembers may be participating in this meeting by interactive
technology/remotely.
This meeting will be streamed live on local Cable Channel 16 and available for playback on our
website.

CALL TO ORDER
1. PUBLIC INQUIRIES/INFORMATIONAL
This is an opportunity for citizens to respectfully bring to the Council’s attention any
items which are relevant to the City. In addressing the Council, you must first state
your name and address for the record. Comments shall be limited to three (3) minutes
or less. Written documents or other materials should be handed to the City Clerk for
distribution to the Council prior to or during the meeting. Council will generally not
respond at the same meeting where an issue is initially raised by a member of the
public but the Council may refer the issue to staff for further research and possible
report or action at a future Council meeting.

2. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES
3. AGENDA ITEMS
3.A. Work Session Start Time
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
3.B. Sign Code Revisions

3.A. Work Session Start Time
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
3.B. Sign Code Revisions
Jake Reilly, Community Development Director
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
ATTACHMENT A.PDF
ATTACHMENT B.PDF
ATTACHMENT C.PDF
3.C. Zoning Code Updates
Jake Reilly, Community Development Director
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
ATTACHMENT A.PDF
3.D. Code Of Conduct
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
ATTACHMENT A.PDF
ATTACHMENT B.PDF
ATTACHMENT C.PDF
ATTACHMENT D.PDF
3.E. E1. Use Of City Property And E2. Immigration Enforcement Discussion
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
ATTACHMENT A.PDF
3.F. Rice Creek Commons/TCAAP Discussion
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
3.G. Agenda Planning
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

MEMO.PDF
3.G. Agenda Planning
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator
Documents:
MEMO.PDF
ATTACHMENT A.PDF
ATTACHMENT B.PDF
4. COUNCIL/STAFF COMMENTS
ADJOURN

AGENDA ITEM – 3A

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers

FROM:

Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

SUBJECT:

Work Session Start Time

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should discuss the start time for Work Sessions and provide further direction to staff.
Background
At the May 11th Work Session, staff requested that the Council discuss the work session start
time for the summer months. City Code Section 210.03, Subd. 1 states “Regular Meetings. The
City Council shall have regular meetings on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at
7:00 p.m. and shall have regular workshops on the second and fourth Monday of each month at
5:30 p.m.” In 2024 and 2025, the Council directed staff to begin work sessions at 5 PM for the
summer months. Council should be aware that if the meeting start time is adjusted temporarily,
that will make them all Special Work Sessions due to the time change, and agenda items cannot
be added for discussion.
The City Council is asked to discuss the meeting start time and provide further direction, if any,
on the next steps.
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
N/A
Page 1 of 1

AGENDA ITEM – 3B

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

FROM:

Jake Reilly, Community Development Director

SUBJECT:

Sign Code Revisions

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should discuss and provide direction to staff on recommended zoning code updates
related to Chapter 12 – Signs brought forward for consideration after review and
recommendation by the EDC.
Background
Revisions to Chapter 12 – Sign Code have been in process since early 2023 and have been
incorporated into the full zoning code update underway by planning consultant HKGi. The
Economic Development Commission has been the primary advisor to city staff and the consultant
team regarding revisions.
At the August 23, 2023, Economic Development Commission meeting, staff presented an
introduction to the sign code, with a focus on non-residential, permanent commercial message
signage, covering the current format and content of the code with sign standards by sign district
and sign type. At subsequent meetings, the EDC reviewed standards for different sign types with
an awareness of recent requests for sign standard flexibility through planned unit developments
and sign standard adjustments. The group considered wall signage, freestanding signage, and
dynamic display signs. The review also included a comparison of the sign codes for the cities of
Shoreview and New Brighton.
Subsequently, EDC members and staff presented a summary of recommended changes to the
sign code at the June 5, 2024, Planning Commission meeting, which focused on the EDC desire
Page 1 of 3

that the sign code be easy for business owners to understand and equitable. EDC Commissioners
suggested that the sign code could be made simpler and more approachable for businesses.
Recommendations from the EDC that have been brought forward into the current draft
(Attachment A) include:
• Align sign districts with zoning districts and reducing the number of sign districts.
• Base the maximum permitted wall signage on a percentage of the building elevation or
footprint square footage and set a minimum permitted sign copy area to ensure smaller
buildings are still permitted sufficient signage.
• Base the maximum permitted signage on a freestanding/monument sign on building
square footage.
• For a property with two street frontages, permit two monument signs with the same or a
similar square footage.
• Permit dynamic display signage.
• Regulate dynamic display sign brightness and other features with the intent to minimize
impact to residential uses.
Draft Revisions to Chapter 12 – Signs
Primary changes in the attached document include:
• Revised language associated with findings, scope, purpose, and definitions to be clear,
concise, and align with accepted professional practices, standards in surrounding
communities, and recent legal interpretations by state and federal courts.
• A definition and standards for permitted dynamic display signs, including illumination.
• Revised definitions and standards for temporary and portable signs to align with accepted
practice, surrounding communities, and to accommodate accessibility standards.
• Addressing the EDC recommendations to condense sign districts and allow for more
universally applicable standards to be applied to similar uses and to reduce staff and
planning commission time processing requests for sign standard adjustments. These
recommendations are accommodated in Table 1200.08-1 Permanent Sign Standards
(page 16 of Attachment A):
o The B1 – Limited Business zoning district and those commercial, institutional,
and industrial uses in the primary commercial areas combined into one “district.”
o Total permitted wall signage is calculated as a function of the wall area of a
building.
o Increasing the maximum allowable wall signage based on review of sign standard
adjustment applications over the last decade, standards in surrounding
communities, and industry best practices.
o Establishing a maximum and minimum sign area for wall signs.
• Clarifying enforcement related to nonconforming signs, obsolete/unused signs, portable
and temporary signs, and other concerns associated with public health, safety, wellbeing
and property maintenance.
Secondary changes include:
• Added graphics/visuals to help guide applicants and the community.
• Revisions to language to be more clear, concise, and consistent across the code including
using more plain or ordinary language to improve clarity and communication of standards
as well as reduce complexity for users of the code including residents, business owners &
sign fabricators/installers.
• When appropriate, remove or replace outdated language and align language with industry
standards.
Page 2 of 3

The EDC reviewed and recommended a version of this draft at the March 25, 2026 regular
meeting. Page 6 from the minutes of that meeting, which represents the entirety of the agenda
item is included as Attachment B. The Commission expressed appreciation that the work they
did is represented in the draft.
Other considerations for Council discussion:
• Are the graphics helpful and do they provide sufficient information?
• Are the choices for allowing deviations from the standard sufficient? The existing and
draft code identify the site plan review and planned unit development processes as
opportunities for applicants to request flexibility from adopted sign standards. Many
communities, including several neighbors, use a conditional use permit and related
process, either as a choice in addition to or in place of those applications and processes,
particularly when a requested sign is larger than the standard.
• The new language for dynamic display signs is based on a common industry standard that
has become accepted practice. Are there amendments to consider based on concerns
about time, manner, place, location, lighting, or other non-content-related concerns?
The City Council is asked to discuss the draft city code regulations related to signs and provide
further direction, if any, on the next steps.
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
Attachment A: Draft code language for Chapter 12 – Sign Code
Attachment B: EDC minutes – Item 4B
Attachment C: Existing code language for Chapter 12 – Sign Code

Page 3 of 3

Attachment A A
Attachment
Chapter 12

Sign Code

1200.

Signage Regulations

1200.01

Introductory Provisions

Subd. 1
Purpose and FindingsIntent.
A. The purpose and intent of tPurpose. This Sign Code is intended to:
1. eEstablish a comprehensive and balanced system of sign control regulations to
address the number, location, size, placement, duration, type, illumination and
certain physical characteristics of all signs placed on private property for public
observation that accommodates the need for a well-maintained, safe, and
attractive community, and the need for effective communications, including
business identification. It is the intent of these sign regulations, and to promote
the public health, safety, general welfare, aesthetics, and image and order of the
community by regulating signs that are intended to communicate to the public in
all areas of the City. It is not the purpose or intent of this Chapter to regulate the
message displayed on any sign.
2. Maintain, enhance, and improve the appearance and aesthetic environment of
the City by preventing visual clutter that is harmful while providing for effective
means of communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and the city’s
goals of public safety and aesthetics.
B. It is not the purpose or intent to regulate the message displayed on any sign; nor is it
the purpose or intent to regulate any building design or any display not defined as a
sign, or any sign which cannot be viewed from outside a building.
C. Findings. The City finds it is necessary for the promotion and preservation of the
public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics of the community to control the
construction, location, size, and maintenance of signs.
Subd. 2
Scope of Regulations.
A. The sign regulations set forth in this Chapter shall apply to all structures and all land
uses.
B. This Chapter describes the signage standards for all signs in the City.
C. No person, property owner, lessee shall place, erect, alter, modify, enhance or
change in any way a sign that does not conform to the requirements of this Chapter
and all other applicable regulations.
Severability.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phase, or other part of this Chapter is
for any reason held to be invalid or in conflict with any other state or federal law, such
invalidity shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portion of this
Chapter. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted the Chapter in
each section, subsection, sentence, or phase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any
one or more sections, subjections, sentences, clauses, or phrases are declared
invalid.

1200.02

Sign Definitions

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this subsection, except where the context clearly indicatesd a different
meaning:
Page 1 of 22

Attachment A
Auxiliary sign. A sign that provides direction for internal circulation, parking or entry,
restrictions on parking, security warnings, or other similar primarily noncommercialnoncommercial signs that are directed at people that are entering, exiting, or on a particular
property. Auxiliary signs do not include outdoor advertising signs.
Banner. Any temporary sign of lightweight fabric or similar material mounted to a pole or a
building at one or more edges (see also Temporary sign and Portable sign) (Figure 1200.02-1).
Figure 1200.02-1 Building Sign Types

Billboard. See "Outdoor advertising sign."
Canopy/awning sign. A message or logo on an awning or canopy which is constructed
according to the requirements of the building code, is an integral part of the building, and is
consistent with the architecture and design of the building (see Figure 1200.02-1).
Clear vision area. The clear vision area shall be an area within a triangle that is measured
along the edge of the driving surface of the road starting at the intersection of two roads (public
or private) and extending 30 feet in each direction from the intersection and then a line
connecting these two end points.
Commercial message sign. Any message which identifies a business or product or promotes
the sale of any product or service.
Drive-through Menu Board Sign. A freestanding exterior sign adjacent to the drive-through
lane at a drive-through facility that identifies items for sale at the facility and their associated
Page 2 of 22

Attachment A
prices for customers (Figure 1200.02-2). The menu board must comply with §12401200.02 04
of this chapter.
Figure 1200.02-2 Drive-through Menu Board

Dynamic Display. Any characteristics of a sign that appear to have movement or that appear to
change, caused by any method other than physically removing and replacing the sign or its
components, whether the apparent movement or change is in the display, the sign structure
itself, or any other component of the sign. This includes a display that incorporates a technology
or method allowing the sign face to change the image without having to physically or
mechanically replace the sign face or its components (Figure 1200.02-3). This also includes, but
is not limited to, any rotating, revolving, moving, flashing, blinking, projecting, or animated
display and any display that incorporates rotating panels, LED lights manipulated through digital
input, "digital ink," or any other method or technology that allows the sign face to present a
series of images or displays.
Figure 1200.02-3 Dynamic Display

Page 3 of 22

Attachment A
Flag sign. A piece of cloth or similar material, typically oblong and square, attached by one
edge to a pole and used as a symbol, standard, emblem or insignia, or containing text other
than that associated with a commercial, business, or economic interest or activity. attached to a
pole, staff or cord that is primarily symbolic or representational in nature, sometimes alpha or
numeric in content or copy (see Figure 1200.02-1).
Freestanding sign. A self-supporting sign usually held up by uprights placed in the ground or
any other base that is anchored to the ground (Figure 1200-02-4).
Figure 1200.02--4 Freestanding Signs

Grand opening. Commencement of operation of a new business. For purposes of the
ordinance, a grand opening is considered to occur if there is a business name change or
change in type of business or activity.
Graphic sign. A sculpture attached to or sign painted directly on a wall that is primarily
symbolic or representational in nature and not alpha or numeric in content or copy.
Ground flag sign. A temporary banner sign which is located upon or affixed to the ground (see
also Temporary sign and Portable sign).
Illuminated (lighted) sign. Any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines
which is illuminated by an artificial light source.
LightingIllumination, backlit. An illuminated sign where the light source which
illuminates the wall behind individual sign letters is hidden from view. The sign letters are
opaque and appear as a silhouette against the lighted surface.
· LightingIllumination, external. The sign is illuminated by means of external light
fixtures directed at the sign.
Page 4 of 22

Attachment A
LightingIllumination, internal. An illuminated sign having the source of illumination
located inside a translucent panel and is not directly visible.
Incidental sign. Any sign that is generally not understandable or readable from property other
than where the sign is located, such as from adjacent property or a public street, as determined
by the City Administrator of their designee.
Manual cChangeable copy message sign. A message sign where the lettering/graphic
message that is not permanently attached to the sign face but and is changed manually not a
dynamic display (Figure 1200.02-5). The message is changed manually.
Figure 1200.02-5 Manual Changeable Copy Sign

Monument sign. A freestanding sign with its sign face mounted on the ground or mounted on a
base at least as wide as the sign and is less than 16 feet in height (Figure 1200.02-6).
Figure 1200.02-6 Monument Sign

Obsolete sign. A sign that no longer identifies or advertises a bona fide business, lessor,
service, owner, product, or activity and/or for which no legal owner can be found. Obsolete signs
include signs associated with non-conforming uses that have been discontinued.

Page 5 of 22

Attachment A
Off-premise sign. A sign advertising a business, person, activity, goods, products, or services
not located on the site where the sign is installed, or that directs persons to any location not on
that site.
On-premise sign. A sign whose message is related to the property or the activity and use
occurring on the property on which the sign is located. On-premise signs include multi-tenant
identification signs that may advertise tenants on different property provided such tenants are
within the same approved PUD and parking is shared between properties.
Outdoor advertising sign. Any sign that is located outdoors and that is located upon a
property other than that of the development or use for which the sign is intendedthat advertises
a product, business, service, event, or any other matter that is not available, or does not take
place, on the same premises as the sign. Outdoor advertising signs are commonly called
billboards. An outdoor advertising sign does not include a sign that is not readily understandable
or readable from property other than where the sign is located, such as from adjacent property
or a public street, as determined by the City Administrator or their designee.
Permanent sign. Any sign that is not temporary.
Portable sign. A temporary sign with or without copy and graphic that is designed or intended
to be moved or transported but not including banner signs. Examples of portable signs include,
but are not limited to: A-frame or Sandwich board signs, or T-frame signs, ground flag signs,
sandwich signs; signs designed to be transported by trailer or on wheels; and signs mounted on
a vehicle for advertising purposes, except signs identifying a business when the vehicle is being
used in the normal day-to-day operation of that business. A sign may be a portable sign even if
it has wheels removed, was designed without wheels, or is attached to the ground, a structure,
or other sign (Figure 1200.02-7).
Figure 1200.02-7 Portable Signs

Projecting sign. A sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to and projects more than 18
inches from the building façade (see Figure 1200.02-1).
Page 6 of 22

Attachment A
Public sign. A traffic control sign in Minnesota State Statutes; any identification sign installed in
a public park by a public authority; and any other identification, regulatory, or warning sign
approved by the City Council for installation on public land.
Pylonole sign. A freestanding sign that is elevated off the ground by one or more poles (Figure
1200.02-8).
Figure 1200.02-8 Pylon Signs

Re-facing. The process of replacing the sign copy, message, logo, or graphic on a sign without
altering or moving the structure to which the sign face is attached.
Roof sign. A sign that is mounted on the roof of a building or on a parapet wall that is above the
roof line (see Figure 1200.02-1).
Rotating sign. A sign or a portion of a sign which moves in a rotating oscillating or similar
manner other than changing signs.
Service area canopy. Open air roof-like structure that projects from the wall of a building or is
freestanding and is for the purpose of shielding equipment and/or people from the elements; is
often found covering service or gasoline station islands.
Sign. Any written message, pictorial presentation, number, illustration, decoration, banner or
other device that is used to announce, direct attention to, identify, advertise or otherwise make
anything known. For purpose of maintenance or removal, the term "sign" shall also include
frames and support structures.
Sign area. The area in square feet of smallest rectangle, circle, or triangle that contains
the sign copy.
Sign height. The distance measured perpendicular from the highest point of the sign structure
to the average elevation of the street used for access to the property.
Temporary sign. A sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of time that is not
permanently affixed to the land or to a structure (See also Banner and Portable sign).

Page 7 of 22

Attachment A
Wall sign. A sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of a building or
structure (see Figure 1200.02).
Window sign. A sign mounted inside of a building within the window area that is applied or
fastened to the window in a manner that is intended to be viewed from outside the building (see
Figure 1200.02-1).

1200.03

General Regulations

Subd. 1
All signs within this subsection shall comply towith the following:
A. A sign shall be considered as a structure or a part of a structure for the purpose of
applying yard and height regulationsand subject to area, height and location
requirements of this chapter except as hereinafter stipulated.
B. All signs shall be designed, constructed, and maintained in accordance with the
following standards:
1. All signs shall comply with applicable provisions of the Building Code and
Electrical Code.
2. All signs shall be constructed of durable materials and shall be permanently
attached.
3. All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from peeling paint, rust, damaged
or rotted supports, framework or other material, broken or missing faces or
missing letters. Any structure from which a sign has been moved or removed
shall be repaired with materials and/or painted or stained to match the existing
background.
4. Activities considered normal maintenance and repair and not requiring a sign or
building permit shall include activities such as replacing or repairing lamps,
ballasts, transformers, trim, sign fasteners, nuts, or washers; painting the pole of
freestanding signs; and painting the cabinet of freestanding signs or building
signs shall not require a permit.
Subd. 2
Sign Area Calculation.
A. The area of a sign is determined by the Zoning Administrator, 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:
1. Formula A: If channel letters and symbols are used, the sign area is the sum of
the area of two contiguous rectangles, squares, or circles that enclose the
extreme points or edges of all copy, logos, and symbols of said sign (Figure
1200.03-1).

Page 8 of 22

Attachment A
Figure 1200.03-1 Sign Area Formula A

2. Formula B: If channel letters are not used, 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 together with any material or color forming
an integral part of the background of the display or used to differential the sign
from the backdrop or structure against which it is placed. This area does not
include structural or architectural features of the sign where copy will not be
located (Figure 1200.03-2).
Figure 1200.03-2 Sign Area Formula B

Subd. 3
Illuminated Signs.
A. All lighted signs including those with backlit, internal, and external illumination, shall
be subject to the provisions of the State Electrical Code and shall comply with the
underwriter’s standard as defined in the current Underwriter Laboratories Standard
for safety, electric sign.
B. Illumination for all static signs shall be constant and steady.

Page 9 of 22

Attachment A
C. No illuminated sign shall reflect or direct light onto adjacent properties or public
streets.
D. All illuminated signs must meet the following brightness standards:
1. All illuminated signs shall meet Subsection 1350.08 – Outdoor Lighting.
2. No illuminated sign may be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair or interfere
with the vision of a motor vehicle driver or effectiveness of an official traffic sign,
device, or signal.
3. Signs which use light fixtures on exterior surfaces shall not cause illumination or
glare in excess of one-half foot-candle measured at the street curb line.
4. The person owning or controlling the sign must adjust the sign to meet the
brightness standards in accordance with the City’s instructions. The adjustment
must be made immediately upon notice of noncompliance from the City.
5. All signs that will have illumination by a means other than natural light must be
equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts the brightness in response
to ambient conditions. These signs must also be equipped with a means to
immediately turn off the display or lighting if it malfunctions, and the sign owner or
operator must immediately turn off the sign or lighting when notified by the City
that it is not complying with the standards in this section.

1200.04

Prohibited Signs.

Subd. 1
The following signs shall be prohibited in all districts:
A. Signs with moving, swinging, revolving, or rotating parts;
B. Roof signs;
C. Projecting signs;
D. Portable signs that do not meet the requirements in section 1200.05.1.E.
E. Signs in the public right-of-way except as provided for in Section 1200.06 (3), by
Minnesota Statutes, or allowed by the agency regulating the right-of-way;
F. Signs attached to public utility poles, trees, street signs, stoplights, or fences;
G. Permanent off-premise signs, including billboardsoutdoor advertising signs;
H. Signs in the clear vision area;
I. Signs imitating traffic control signs. (i.e. signs which are designed to resemble official
traffic signs except they are used to control traffic on private property);
J. Any sign not constructed, wired, assembled, attached, or supported in conformance
with this Section, applicable building codes, and other regulations;
K. Signs with content classified as "obscene" as defined by Minnesota Statutes, section
617.241; and
L. Signs on private property without owner’s permission.
M. Sign lighting or sign technology not specifically listed as permitted in this Chapter
shall be prohibited.

1200.05

Exempt Signs.

Subd. 1
The following signs shall not require a permit and are allowed in addition to those
signs allowed by this chapter. These exemptions, however, shall not be construed as
relieving the owner of the sign from the responsibility of its erection and maintenance, and
its compliance with the provisions of this chapter, or any other law or ordinance regulating
the same.

Page 10 of 22

Attachment A
A. Government Signs. All governmental signs, including but not limited to traffic control
and other regulatory purpose signs, street signs, identification signs, informational
signs, danger signs, and railroad crossing signs.
B. All signs in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, Section 211B.045.
C. Address Signs. Address identification not exceeding four square feet in area for each
structure or portion of a structure with an assigned address. Street identification
numbers are required in all sign districts and should be clearly visible from the street.
D. Auxiliary Signs.
1. Residential properties shall be permitted up to four square feet per sign; not to
exceed a total of eight square feet for all auxiliary signs. The signs shall not be
illuminated.
2. Nonresidential properties shall be permitted up to eight square feet per sign; not
to exceed a total of 40 square feet for all auxiliary signs.
E. Graphic Signs. Permitted only on multi-unit dwellings or nonresidentialnon-residential
buildings, provided they do not exceed 25% of the wall area upon which they are
located.
F. Incidental Signs. Incidental signs or signs within a building provided that the sign is
not readily visible from the public right-of-way, adjacent properties, and are not
illuminated.
G. Portable signs. Portable A-frame, Sandwich board, T-frame, ground flag or other
similar portable signs that do not exceed six square feet in size and are not
illuminated if located within 15 feet of the primary entrance to the business it is
advertising and displayed only during the hours of business operation. No more than
two of these signs shall be in place for each tenant at any given time. Portable signs
must be brought indoors at or before the close of the business for the day.
H. Window Signs. Window signs that are inside of a building shall not exceed 35% of
the window area in which it is being displayed, or 5% of the total building façade.
I. Non-commercial Signs. Any sign, display, or device allowed under this section may
contain, in lieu of other copy, any otherwise lawful noncommercialnon-commercial
message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit, or to a
commodity service for sale, and that complies with the size, height and lighting
requirements of this Chapter.

1200.06

Temporary Sign Regulations

Subd. 1
Temporary On-premise Signs.
A. All temporary on-premise signs shall require an approved sign permit prior to placing
the sign and shall conform to the following:
1. Temporary Sign Area. Temporary signs shall not exceed 32 square feet in area.
2. Temporary Sign Height. A temporary sign shall not exceed the freestanding
height limits listed in Table 1200.08-1 for a permanent sign of a particular sign
type in a given district. This shall include inflatable signs and balloons.
3. Quantity and Duration. No more than one temporary sign per tenant shall be
displayed at any one time. No more than four temporary sign permits shall be
issued per calendar year, per tenant, and permits for the display of such signs
shall be valid for up to 14 days. Up to two occasions may be used consecutively.
At no time shall a temporary sign permit be valid for more than 28 days.
4. All such signs shall be removed from the premises no more than one working
day following the expiration of the permit.
Page 11 of 22

Attachment A
5. Temporary signs, including streamers, pennants, banners, balloons, inflatables or
other similar object with a commercial message, may be displayed on three
occasions per calendar year with a maximum of 10 days for each occasion. The
three occasions may be used consecutively with one permit. Temporary sign
permits are nontransferable to other properties or establishments on the same
property.
Temporary Sign Height. A temporary sign shall not exceed the freestanding
height limits listed in Table Section 1260 1200.08-1Table 1 for a permanent sign
of a particular sign type in a given district. This shall include inflatable signs and
balloons.
6. Sign InstallationPlacement. Temporary signs shall be secured and wellconstructed so as not to create a hazard to pedestrians or vehicles. Freestanding
temporary signs shall be placed such that there is a minimum of 36 inches of
unobstructed sidewalk clearance between it and any other building or
obstruction. The permitted location of all temporary signs is subject to change as
determined by the Zoning Administrator in order to protect the public health,
safety, and welfare.
7. Illumination. A temporary sign shall not be illuminated.
Location. The permitted location of all temporary signs are subject to change as
determined by the Zoning Administrator in order to protect the public health,
safety, welfare, and aesthetics.
8. Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College Banner
Signs. Temporary banner signs for athletic fields at Mounds View High School,
Bethel University, and Northwestern College shall be exempt from the provisions
of this section and shall comply with the applicable provisions in 1200.07.
B. Single occupant parcels.
1. No more than one permitted temporary sign shall be permitted at any given one
time.
2. The area of the temporary signage shall not exceed one half of the permitted
sign area as allowed in Table 1200.08-1 Section 1260 Table 1 for a particular sign
type in the underlying sign district.
3. Freestanding temporary signs shall only be permitted in districts where
freestanding signs are permitted as allowed in Table 1200.08-1 Section 1260
Table 1. If a conforming freestanding sign is already in place, the temporary
freestanding sign shall be attached to or near to the existing freestanding sign.
C. Multi-tenant parcels. Each individual business establishment that has exclusive use
of some portion of the street or otherwise primary level of the building, and direct
access to the outside qualifies for temporary signage as follows:
1. Each business shall not have more than one wall or freestanding temporary sign
at a time.
2. The total temporary wall sign area for each tenant shall not exceed one half of
the permitted permanent wall sign area as allowed in Table 1200.08-1 Section
1260 Table 1.
3. The total area of all temporary freestanding signage for the parcel shall not
exceed one half of the permitted area of permanent freestanding signage for the
parcel as allowed in Table 1200.08-1 Section 1260 Table 1.
4. The total permitted temporary freestanding sign area shall be allocated by the
property owner or their designee among its tenants.
Page 12 of 22

Attachment A
5. Sign permits shall not be transferrable to other business establishments.
D. Grand Openings. New businesses with grand openings are eligible for one additional
temporary sign permit of any type permitted in the underlying sign district with an
approved permit. The sign may be in place for up to 30 days provided all other
requirements in this section are met and the required permits are obtained. This
eligibility shall expire six months after the business opens.
E. Lease or Vacant Space. Buildings or parcels with space for sale or lease may obtain
a temporary sign permit for one temporary wall or monument sign that expires seven
days after the building or parcel is leased or sold.
1. A wall sign shall not exceed 25 square feet in size and shall be used in place of a
permanent wall sign.
2. A freestanding sign shall not exceed 15 square feet in size and shall be attached
or immediately adjacent to an existing freestanding sign. All other provisions in
this section shall apply.
Subd. 2
Temporary Off-premise Signs.
A. Each residential property is allowed up to five freestanding, temporary, off-premise
signs in the city right-of-way or on private property provided the signs meet the
standards of this section:
1. Location. Temporary signs must be placed solely on private property and must
maintain a minimum two-foot setback from public sidewalks and roadways.
2. Sign Number Limit. Signs shall be four square feet or less in size, and less than
four feet high;
3. Signs shall not be non-illuminated;
4. Signs shall be placed within one mile of said residential property (this provision
does not preempt the sign regulations for neighboring communities);
5. Signs shall be displayed no more than three consecutive days in any seven-day
period.
6. Permission. The sign owner shall obtain permission from the property owner to
place a sign on their property or on property that shares a property line with the
adjoining right-of-way where the sign is located. The property owner may
withdraw that permission at any time.
i. Failure to obtain permission may result in removal of the sign.
ii. Sign(s) are prohibited on land owned by the city, county, federal
government and school district(s).
7. Additional signs during election periods:
i. Election period. An election period begins 46 days prior to a state primary and
ten days following an election conducted under federal, state, county, or city
laws or ordinances in which residents of the city are entitled to vote.
ii. Number of signs permitted. An unlimited number of temporary signs are
allowed.
iii. Setbacks. Signs must be set back a minimum of six feet from the edge of any
roadways and shall not interfere with vehicle or pedestrian visibility. Signs
placed on corner lots shall not obstruct views to or from the roadway. Rightof-way Regulatory Authority. Sign(s) placed within city right-of-way shall not
be placed within five feet of the edge of the roadway pavement or curb.
iv. Exception. If the five foot distance places the sign on a trail or sidewalk
surface then the signage shall be placed on the dwelling side of the sidewalk
or trail.
Page 13 of 22

Attachment A
v. Sign(s) placed in Ramsey County or State of Minnesota right-of-way shall be
subject to Ramsey County and State of Minnesota regulations.
vi. Failure to obtain permission from the appropriate agency may result in
removal of the sign.
8. Disclaimer. The City of Arden Hills shall not be responsible for damage to any
signs placed in the right-of-way.

1200.07
Temporary Banner Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High
School, Bethel University, and University of Northwestern.
Subd. 1
Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern
College may be permitted to have temporary banner signs attached to the fences of their
athletic fields provided that such signage faces the field of play so that the impact of the
signage is directed only to those utilizing using the field or watching the sporting event, and
not surrounding property owners.
A. To the greatest extent possible such signage shall not obstruct sightlines to the
athletic field for those watching the sporting event from the bleachers or other
designated viewing areas.
B. The temporary banner signage must be approved by Mounds View High School,
Bethel University, or University of Northwestern for their respective athletic fields.
C. The Zoning Officer Administrator shall determine if the signage is visible from a
public roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and University of Northwestern. If found to be visible, the signs shall
comply with the following size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as
described below:
1. Permit Requirements. Sign permits shall not be required for individual banner
signs, butsigns but shall be required where a new group massing of signage is
requested.
2. Individual Sign Area. Temporary banner signs shall not exceed 50 square feet
each.
3. Total Signage Area. The temporary banner sign shall not exceed a massing of
over 960 square feet in one area or a total of 2,000 square feet.
4. Time Limit. Temporary banner signsigns shall not be displayed for more than 90
consecutive days or more than 180 days during the calendar year.
5. Compliance. The applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the provisions of
this section (including but not limited to: the dimensions of individual banner
signs, the dimensions of that group of banner signs, and the total square feet of
temporary banner signs).

1200.08

Permanent Sign Regulations

Subd. 1
All Permanent Signs.
A. All permitted permanent signs shall conform to the following applicable standards
and Table 1200.08-1: Permanent Sign Standards.

Page 14 of 22

Attachment A
Table 1200.08-1 Permanent Sign Standards
Zoning District
R1 & R2 Districts
R3 & R4 Districts
Non-Residential
Uses in a
Residential District

B1 District and
Commercial,
Institutional or
Industrial uses
fronting on:
• County Road E
• Lexington Ave.
• Highway 96
I FLEX & Gateway
Districts

Neighborhood
Business District

TCAAP area without
frontage on Highway
96

Permitted
Sign Type

Total Permitted
Sign Area

Minimum Sign
Area

Maximum
Height

Any

8 sq. ft.

N/A

N/A

Any

20 sq. ft.

N/A

N/A

Wall

20% of the wall
area, not to exceed
100 sq. ft. total

30 sq. ft

N/A

Freestanding

50 sq. ft.

N/A

10ft

Wall

20% of the wall
area, not to exceed
150 sq. ft. total

80 sq. ft

N/A

Freestanding

60 sq. ft.

N/A

20 ft

Wall

20% of the wall
area, not to exceed
150 sq. ft. total

60 sq. ft

N/A

Freestanding

80 sq. ft

N/A

20 ft

Wall

20% of the wall
area, not to exceed
150 sq. ft. total

50 sq. ft.

N/A

Freestanding

60 sq. ft

N/A

15 ft

Wall

20% of the wall
area, not to exceed
150 sq. ft. total

30 sq. ft.

N/A

B. Freestanding Signs.
1. Properties that front more than one street shall be permitted to have more than
one freestanding sign provided that each additional freestanding sign does not
exceed half the size of the maximum sign area allowed for a freestanding sign in
the applicable district.
2. The sign area of a freestanding sign shall only be calculated using one side of
the sign. If the two sides are different sizes, the larger side shall be used for
determining the sign area.
3. Freestanding signs shall be located at least five feet from any property line and
shall not project over the property line.
Page 15 of 22

Attachment A
C. Multi-tenant buildings or sites shall be permitted:
1. One wall sign up to the total permitted signage area in Table 1200.08-1.
i. The total wall sign area shall be calculated for each individual business
establishment that has exclusive use of a building façade, some portion of the
street, or direct access to the outside.
2. The permitted freestanding sign area shall be associated with the main parcel,
with the tenant signage allocated by the property owner meeting the maximum
signage areas allocated in Table 1200.08-1.
Subd. 2
Sign Design.
1. Business signs shall be architecturally compatible with the style, materials, colors
and details of the building.
2. Signs shall be incorporated into the façades of the buildings rather than
extending into the roof line and should not project more than 12 inches above the
plane of the façades.
3. Retail business wall signs shall be located in a position above the front window
that is located consistently among stores.
4. Wall signs shall not extend more than 18 inches out from the wall to which they
are attached.
Subd. 3
Special Permanent Sign Regulations.
A. Awnings and Canopies. No part of an awning or sun canopy shall be less than eight
feet or greater than 12 feet above grade. The fabric or material used for the awning
or canopy must be opaque and no illumination is permitted.
B. Service Area Canopy. Each edge of a service area canopy facing a street is
permitted 25 square feet of sign area in addition to all other sign area permitted on
the site. Such signage may be illuminated, but no other part of the face of the canopy
shall be illuminated.
C. Manual Changeable Message Copy Sign. No more than 35 percent of the actual sign
area of a permitted sign in a nonresidential sign district shall be capable of displaying
manually changing messages or copy that can be changed manually. The remainder
of the sign area shall not have the capability to change messages even if not used.
Manual changing message signs shall not include dynamic displays.
D. Adult Use Signs. In addition to this Chapter, all adult use-oriented signs shall comply
with the sign requirements in Chapter 1340 Use-Specific Standards. Where any
provisions of this Chapter conflict, the provision that is more stringent shall be
applied.
Subd. 4
Dynamic Display Signs.
A. Dynamic displays on signs are allowed as described herein, except as prohibited by
state or federal law, and with certain standards and restrictions to ensure health,
safety, and welfare.
B. Any sign using a dynamic display, in whole or in part, must meet the following
standards:
1. Dynamic display signs shall be permitted for nonresidential uses abutting a major
arterial or collector street. No dynamic display sign shall be erected facing or
located on a lot line adjacent to a property used for residential.
2. Dynamic display signs shall only be permitted on freestanding signs.
3. Only one, contiguous dynamic display area is allowed on a sign face. The
dynamic display may occupy no more than 40% of the actual sign copy area. The
remainder of the sign must not have the capability to have dynamic displays.
Page 16 of 22

Attachment A
4. Speakers and/or any audio component is prohibited. The sign shall not emit any
sound.
5. No portion of the sign may change or have the background in a manner of
displaying or characterizing motion, Including flashing, scrolling, twirling, change
in color, illusion of moving objects, moving patterns, or bands of light or
expanding or contracting shapes, fluctuating in light intensity or use intermittent,
strobe, bursts, or moving light, streams, zooms, twinkles, and/or sparkles. Any
manner that creates the illusion of movement other than permitted transitions is
prohibited.
6. Duration. On any portion of the sign that changes, the dynamic display must
have a minimum static duration of 10 seconds.
7. Transition. On any portion of the sign that changes, the change sequence must
be accomplished by means of instantaneous transition. Fading, dissolving,
scrolling, traveling, or any transition that creates the illusion of movement is
prohibited.
8. Brightness. The dynamic display sign must not exceed a maximum illumination of
5,000 nits (candelas per square meter) during daylight hours and a maximum
illumination of 500 nits (candelas per square meter) between dusk to dawn as
measured from the sign’s face at maximum brightness.
9. Dimmer Control. Electronic graphic display signs must have an automatic
dimmer control to produce a distinct illumination change from a higher
illumination level to a lower level for the time period between one half-hour before
sunset and one half-hour after sunrise.
10. Dynamic displays must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one
position if a malfunction occurs. The displays must also be equipped with a
means to immediately discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign
owner must immediately turn off the dynamic display when notified by the city
that it is not complying with the standards of this chapter.
11. Dynamic displays must comply with the outdoor lighting standards contained in
Section 1360.08.
C. Drive-up Window Menu Board.
1. Location. All drive-up menu board signs shall be single sided and located
adjacent to the drive- up lane and shall not be located in any required setback.
Signs may be affixed to the building.
2. Height. A drive-up menu board sign shall not exceed 8 feet above grade in
height.
3. Size. A drive-up menu board sign shall not exceed 40 square feet.
4. Number. Up to two drive-up menu board signs are permitted per lane. The total
surface area of the two signs shall not exceed 40 square feet each.
5. A drive-up menu board signs shall comply with the following standards:
i. The images, colors, and text may not change more than five times per day;
ii. All images, colors, and text shall be static with no flashing, scrolling, or
animation;
iii. At any time the business or drive- throughup window is closed to the public,
any drive- through menu board sign shall be turned off until the business or
drive-through window is open to the public.

Page 17 of 22

Attachment A
iv. Signs with speakers or intercoms shall be designed and located in a manner
to direct noise away from adjoining properties. Speaker noise shall not be
audible to adjacent residential properties.
v. The sign(s) shall not be located as to impair the vision of the driver of a
vehicle traveling either into, out of, or through the lane.
Subd. 5
Permanent Signs at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and University
of Northwestern.
A. Permitted Permanent Signs for Athletic Fields.
1. Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and University of
Northwestern may be permitted to have permanent signage at their respective
athletic fields.
2. Such signage shall be permanent in nature and shall not be lit by a direct lighting
source.
3. Signs may be an entrance gate style sign, signage affixed directly to a press
box/grandstand, or signage included on the scoreboard.
4. Such signage shall be constructed of durable materials (finished metal, finished
wood, plastic).
5. The Zoning Administrator shall determine if the signage is visible from a public
roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel University,
and University of Northwestern. If found to be visible, the signs shall comply with
the following size limitations: and shall follow the sign permit process as
described below:
i. Sign Area. The signage area of entrance gate signs shall not exceed 30
square feet, the signage area of press box/grandstand signage shall not
exceed 80 square feet, and scoreboard field naming signage shall not exceed
40 percent of the total scoreboard area.
ii. Total Sign Area. The cumulative total of permanent signage shall not exceed
200 square feet.
iii. Sign Permit Required. Since the signage would be permanent in nature, the
applicant shall be required to obtain aA sign permit approval is required prior
to the installation of any new permanent signage; at such time the applicant
shall demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this section.
B. Scoreboard Signs for Athletic Fields.
1. Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and University of
Northwestern may be permitted to have permanent scoreboard signage at their
athletic fields that is clearly secondary to the overall appearance of the
scoreboard.
2. Such signage shall face the field of play so that the impact of the signage is
directed only to those utilizing using the field or watching the sporting event,
andevent and not surrounding property owners.
3. The scoreboard signage shall comply with the sponsorship sign regulations as
established by Mounds View High SchoolPublic Schools, Bethel University, and
University of Northwestern, for their respective athletic fields.
4. The Zoning Administrator shall determine if the signage is visible from a public
roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel University,
and University of Northwestern. If found to be visible, the signs shall comply with
the following size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as
described below:
Page 18 of 22

Attachment A
i.

Sign Area. Scoreboard signage shall not exceed 30 percent of the total
scoreboard area, nor shall any one scoreboard sign exceed 15 percent of the
total scoreboard area.
ii. Sign Permit Required. Since the scoreboard signs are permanent in nature,
the applicant shall be required to obtain A sign permit approval is required
prior to the installation of any new scoreboard sponsorship signs; at such
time the applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this
section.

1200.09

Sign Standard Adjustments

Subd. 1
Adjustments to the requirements and standards for the height, number, type,
lighting, area, and/or location of a sign or signs established by this Chapter may be
approved with an application for Site Plan Review or a Planned Unit Development process
as described for in Section 1320 and 1355 of the Zoning Code.
This provision shall not be used to permit dynamic display signage.
A. In order to approve any sign standard adjustment, the following criteria shall be
satisfied:
1. The sign adjustment will not result in a sign that is inconsistent with the purpose
of the zoning district in which the property is located or the current land use; and
2. One of the following applies:
i. There are site conditions which require a sign adjustment to allow the
sign to be reasonably visible from a street immediately adjacent to the
site; or
ii. The sign adjustment will allow a sign of exceptional design or a style that
will enhance the area or that is more consistent with the architecture and
design of the site; and

1200.10

Non-Conforming Signs

Subd. 1
It is the intent of this Chapter that non-conforming signs shall not be enlarged or
expanded, nor be used as grounds for adding other signs or uses prohibited elsewhere in
the same district. It is further the intent of this Chapter to permit legal non-conforming signs
to remain provided that such signs are safe, maintained so as not to be unsightly, and have
not been abandoned or removed subject to the following provisions and Section 1320.06:
A. Non-conforming Sign Continuance. A legal non-conforming sign may be continued
through repair, replacement, restoration, maintenance, or improvement but shall not
be expanded or moved to a new location.
B. Non-conforming Sign Discontinuance. If the use of the non-conforming sign or sign
structure is discontinued for a period of one year, the sign or sign structure shall not
be reconstructed or used except in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter.
C. Non-conforming Sign Damaged or Destroyed. Should such non-conforming sign or
sign structure be damaged or destroyed by any means to an extent greater than 50
percent of its market value or structure and all required permits for its reconstruction
have not been applied for within 180 days of when the sign or sign structure was
damaged, it shall not be reconstructed or used except in conformity with the
provisions of this Chapter.
D. Sign Regulation Conformance. Should such sign or sign structure be permanently
moved for any reason for any distance, it shall thereafter conform to the regulations
for the sign district in which it is located after it is moved.
Page 19 of 22

Attachment A
E. Loss of Non-conforming Land Use. An existing sign devoted to a use not permitted
by the Section 1320, Zoning Ordinance in the zoning district in which it is located,
shall not be enlarged, expanded, or moved except in changing the sign to a sign
permitted in the sign district in which it is located.
F. Loss of Non-conforming Status. When a building or use loses its nonconforming
status, all signs devoted to the structure or use shall be removed and all signs
painted directly on the structure shall be repainted in a neutral color or a color which
will harmonize with the structure.

1200.11

Permit and Review Process

Subd. 1
Permit Required.
A. Except for those signs listed in Section 1200.051, no sign shall be erected, altered,
reconstructed, maintained, moved, or enhanced in the City without first obtaining a
sign permit from the City.
B. The content of the message or speech displayed on the sign shall not be considered
when approving or denying a sign permit; however, the content must be submitted to
evaluate the sign copy area and to restrict permanent off-premise signs.
C. For any sign that requires a permit, the following activities shall not be considered
normal maintenance and repair and a permit shall be required:
1. Re-facing a sign, except for the text on a manual changeable message copy
sign.
2. Removing the sign for the repair of the cabinet or any part thereof.
3. Changes made to a sign's size or illumination, including, but not limited to, height,
width, weight, area, or adding or removing illumination.
4. Changes in poles, structural supports, bases or shrouds, footings or anchor bolts,
moving the sign to a new location, or replacement of the interior or exterior
cabinet frame, except the sign face.
D. Building Permit. A building permit may be required for any signs involving the
construction of or changes to a sign structure and/or electrical connections as
determined by the Building Official.
Subd. 2
Application and Review Process.
A. An application for a sign permit shall be supplied on the City's official sign
application.
1. An applicant may submit one application for multiple signs.
2. A new sign permit is required anytime a change to one or more signs is
proposed.
Unless waived by the City Administrator or their designee, each application shall
contain the following information or it shall be considered incomplete:
1. Name, signature, address, and phone number of the property owner (required).
2. Name, signature, address, and phone number of the applicant (if different than
the property owner).
3. Parcel ID of the property.
4. A complete set of plans drawn to scale showing the necessary elevations,
setbacks, size, and details to fully and clearly represent the construction and
place of the signs(s).
5. Type of sign (wall, monument, pole, etc.).

Page 20 of 22

Attachment A
6. Certification by the applicant(s) indicating the application complies with all
requirements of this Chapter.
7. A separate building permit may also be required from the Building Official for
signs involving new or modified sign structures.
8. If the applicant is not the property owner, the applicant shall obtain written
permission from the property owner and provide a copy to the City prior to
approval of the permit.
Subd. 2
Review Process.
B. The Zoning Officer Administrator shall approve or deny the sign permit application in
an expedited manner, no more than 30 days from the receipt of the completed
application, including applicable fees.
C. All permits not reviewed within 30 days shall be deemed approved.
D. Applicants shall be notified in writing if the application is denied, including the
reasons for denial.
Subd. 3
Appeals Process.
A. Appeals of the decision of the Zoning Officer Administrator shall be made to the
Planning Commission in writing within 15 days of the confirmed delivery of the denial
letter for the sign permit application.
B. The Planning Commission shall hold a public hearing as soon as practicable but not
more than 45 days after confirmed receipt of the appeal to review the appeal and
make a recommendation to the City Council.
C. The City Council shall review the Planning Commission's recommendation as soon
as practicable but not more than 45 days after the Planning Commission's
recommendation.
Subd. 4
Fees. Sign permit fees and the impoundment fee shall be set by the City Council
by ordinance on an annual basis.
Subd. 5
Inspection & Enforcement.
A. Inspection Authority. All signs shall be subject to inspection by the Zoning
Administratora city official, who is hereby authorized to enter upon any property of
premise to ascertain whether the provisions of this Chapter are being obeyed. Such
entrance shall be made during business hours unless an emergency exists.
B. Obsolete Signs. Any sign which no longer advertises a bona fide business, or a
product sold, shall be taken down and removed by the owner, agent or person
having the beneficial use of the building or structure upon which sign may be found
within 30 days after written notification from the city official. Upon failure to comply
with such notice within the time specified in such order, the city council may declare
the sign to be a public nuisance, remove it, and assess the cost of removal to the
property owner.
C. Illegal or nonconforming temporary signs. Any sign that is found to be illegal or
nonconforming shall be removed by the property owner within three days of written
notification from the city. Failure to comply with such notice shall be a misdemeanor.
Upon failure to remove within the time specified in such order, the sign is declared to
be a public nuisance and may be removed by the city.
D. Signs in Disrepair. The Zoning Administrator A city official may order the removal of
any sign that is not maintained in accordance with the maintenance provisions of this
ordinance. Upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified in such
order, the City Council may declare the sign to be a public nuisance, impound it, and
assess the cost of removal to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
Page 21 of 22

Attachment A
E. Impoundment of Signs on Public Property or Within Public Right-of-way. The Zoning
Administrator A city official may, at any time and without notice, impound signs that
have been installed on public property, within a public right-of wayof-way, or within a
public easement that are in violation of this Chapter. The sign owner or their agent
may retrieve an impounded sign subject to the following rules:
1. Any impounded sign may be retrieved from the impound area within three
business days of the impoundment or the Zoning Administratorcity may dispose
of it.
2. The impound area can be located by contacting City Hall.
3. Any cost incurred by the City for disposal of an impounded sign may be
assessed to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
4. Payment of an impoundment release fee. Any subsequent impoundment(s),
within one calendar year, for a particular property or sign owner will require
payment of double the initial impoundment release fee.
5. The City shall have no obligation to notify a property owner that it has impounded
a sign.
6. The City shall not be held liable for any damage to an impounded sign.

Page 22 of 22

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – MARCH 25, 2026

Attachment B
6

The Commissioners agreed a post about the 75th Anniversary, promoting the drone show or
highlighting Adopt-A-Park would be a good place to start.
Further discussion ensued regarding the process of Instagram posts. Commissioners will bring
questions and a proposed strategy for Instagram to the next meeting for discussion. The proposal
will need to be discussed with the Senior Communications Coordinator to ensure it aligns with the
general social media strategy. The process is directors create content or identify topics for the
communication coordinator, who has final creative approval. The topics and criteria that fit within
the EDC narrative will have to be identified.
The committee agreed the amendments are appropriate and the EDC Work Plan can be advanced
to City Council.
C. Draft Sign Code Review (Item 4B on posted agenda)
Senior Planner Fransen said there are a lot of new members on the EDC who were not part of
the initial conversation on the sign code. She noted a lot of the code has been simplified but
recognized that there may be some context missing for newer members. The discussion portion
identifies the current code. This conversation will discuss if a new business will be able to easily
navigate the code to appropriately sign their business. Is it accessible and easy to understand? Does
it allow for more creative signage that doesn’t require approval by the Planning Commission and
City Council? She asked if anyone had questions or comments.
Commissioner Brausen said it is a lot to read but he thinks it is done well. He likes that it is
simplified and he’d like to see it move forward.
Commissioner Bonine said a lot of thoughtfulness and resources went into this initial discussion.
We polled other cities and experts. We expressed that the code is rigid and unreasonable. We
shouldn’t require a business to go through the variance process for common sense things. He feels
good knowing those previous discussions are represented here and the consultant validates it.
Senior Planner Fransen said part of next steps will include a summary from staff that outlines
that a certain change may eliminate permit reviews or show how some of the burden on businesses
can be alleviated. It will clarify the EDC’s review and suggestions and also outline why the
changes make sense.
Commissioner Bonine said this was a long process that took a lot of time and work. If we think
it’s in a good place, maybe we don’t need to revisit everything, for the sake of new EDC Members.
Commissioners agreed.
Senior Planner Fransen said Staff’s summarization will make it clear that even if things need to
be changed, it reflects the EDC’s work, and the EDC doesn’t need to see it again. It can move
forward.
A motion was made by Commissioner Brausen and seconded by Commissioner Daniels to
recommend the draft Sign Code dated March 25, 2026 be moved to City Council for
consideration. Motion passed unanimously.

Chapter 12 - Sign Code

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Section 1200 - Purpose and Intent
1200.01 Recitals.
This Chapter shall be known, cited and referred to as the Arden Hills Sign Code, except as referred to herein, where it shall
be known as "this Chapter."
1200.02 Purpose and Findings.
The purpose and findings of this Chapter are as follows:
Subd. 1 Purpose. This Sign Code is intended to establish a comprehensive and balanced system of sign control that
accommodates the need for a well-maintained, safe, and attractive community, and the need for effective communications,
including business identification. It is the intent of these sign regulations, to promote the health, safety, general welfare,
aesthetics, and image of the community by regulating signs that are intended to communicate to the public in all areas of the
City. It is not the purpose or intent of this Chapter to regulate the message displayed on any sign. The purpose of this
Chapter is to authorize:
A. Permanent signs which establish a high standard of aesthetics and are appropriate for the planned character in each
sign district as established in Section 1240;
B. Signs which are compatible with their surroundings;
C. Signs which are designed, constructed, installed and maintained in a manner that does not adversely impact public
safety or create a hazard to motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists;
D. Signs that are proportioned to the scale of, and are architecturally compatible with, principal structures;
E. Permanent signs which give preference to the on-premise owner or occupant;
F. Temporary commercial signs and advertising displays which provide an opportunity to advertise while restricting signs
that create visual clutter and hazards at public right-of-way intersections;
G. Minimize adverse effects on nearby property; and,
H. Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set forth herein under the authority of the City.
Subd. 2 Findings. The City finds it is necessary for the promotion and preservation of the public health, safety, welfare, and
aesthetics of the community to control the construction, location, size, and maintenance of signs. Further, the City finds:
A. Permanent and temporary signs have a direct impact on and relationship to the image and aesthetic of the community;
B. The manner of installation, location and maintenance of signs affects the public health, safety, welfare and aesthetics
of the community;
C. An opportunity for viable identification of community businesses, residences, and institutions must be established;
D. The safety of motorists, cyclists, pedestrians and other users of public streets and property is affected by the number,
size, location and appearance of signs that create a hazard for drivers, particularly from dynamic display signs;
E. Installation of signs suspended from, projecting over, or placed on the tops of buildings, walks or other structures may
constitute a hazard during periods of high winds and an obstacle to effective fire-fighting and other emergency service;
F. Uncontrolled and unlimited signs and sign types, particularly dynamic display signs, adversely impact the image and
aesthetic attractiveness of the community and thereby undermine economic value and growth;
G. Uncontrolled and unlimited signs, particularly temporary signs which are commonly located within or adjacent to public
right-of-way or are located at driveway/street intersections, result in roadside clutter and obstruction of views of oncoming
traffic. This creates a hazard to drivers and pedestrians and also adversely impacts a logical flow of information;
H. Commercial signs are generally incompatible with residential uses and should be strictly limited in residential zoning
districts; and
I. The right to express noncommercial opinions in any zoning district must be protected, subject to reasonable restrictions
on size, height, location and number.
1200.03 Scope of Regulations.
The sign regulations set forth in this Chapter shall apply to all structures and all land uses. This Chapter describes the
signage standards for the nine sign districts that overlay the zoning districts of the City. Specific additional regulations are
established for signs which are unique in purpose and not easily addressed by district regulations. No person, property
owner, lessee shall place, erect, alter, modify, enhance or change in any way a sign that does not conform to the
requirements of this Chapter and all other applicable regulations.
1200.04 Severability.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phase, or other part of this Chapter is for any reason held to be invalid, such
invalidity shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining portion of this Chapter. The City Council hereby

declares that it would have adopted the Chapter in each section, subsection, sentence, or phase thereof, irrespective of the
fact that any one or more sections, subjections, sentences, clauses, or phrases are declared invalid.

Section 1210 - Definitions
1210.01 Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this
subsection, except where the context clearly indicated a different meaning:
· Auxiliary sign. A sign that provides direction for internal circulation, parking or entry, restrictions on parking, security
warnings, or other similar primarily noncommercial signs that are directed at people that are entering, exiting, or on a
particular property. Auxiliary signs do not include outdoor advertising signs.
· Banner. Any temporary sign of lightweight fabric or similar material mounted to a pole or a building at one (1) or more
edges.
· Billboard. See "Outdoor advertising sign."
· Canopy/awning sign. A message or logo on an awning or canopy which is constructed according to the requirements of the
building code, is an integral part of the building, and is consistent with the architecture and design of the building.
· Clear vision area. The clear vision area shall be an area within a triangle that is measured along the edge of the driving
surface of the road starting at the intersection of two roads (public or private) and extending thirty (30) feet in each direction
from the intersection and then a line connecting these two end points.
· Changeable message sign. A message that is not permanently attached to the sign face but is not a dynamic display. The
message is changed manually.
· Commercial message sign. Any message which identifies a business or product or promotes the sale of any product or
service.
· Dynamic Display. Any characteristics of a sign that appear to have movement or that appear to change, caused by any
method other than physically removing and replacing the sign or its components, whether the apparent movement or
change is in the display, the sign structure itself, or any other component of the sign. This includes a display that
incorporates a technology or method allowing the sign face to change the image without having to physically or
mechanically replace the sign face or its components. This also includes, but is not limited to, any rotating, revolving,
moving, flashing, blinking, projecting, or animated display and any display that incorporates rotating panels, LED lights
manipulated through digital input, "digital ink," or any other method or technology that allows the sign face to present a
series of images or displays.
· Freestanding sign. A self-supporting sign usually held up by uprights placed in the ground or any other base that is
anchored to the ground.
· Grand opening. Commencement of operation of a new business. For purposes of the ordinance, a grand opening is
considered to occur if there is a business name change or change in type of business or activity.
· Graphic sign. A sculpture attached to or sign painted directly on a wall that is primarily symbolic or representational in
nature and not alpha or numeric in content or copy.
· Illuminated sign. Any sign, which has characters, letters, figures, designs or outlines which is illuminated by an artificial light
source.
· Incidental sign. Any sign that is generally not understandable or readable from property other than where the sign is
located, such as from adjacent property or a public street, as determined by the City Administrator of their designee.
· Lighting, backlit. An illuminated sign where the light source which illuminates the wall behind individual sign letters is hidden
from view. The sign letters are opaque and appear as a silhouette against the lighted surface.
· Lighting, external. The sign is illuminated by means of external light fixtures directed at the sign.
· Lighting, internal. An illuminated sign having the source of illumination located inside a translucent panel and is not directly
visible.
· Menu Board Sign. A freestanding exterior sign adjacent to the drive-through lane at a drive-through facility that identifies
items for sale at the facility and their associated prices for customers. The menu board must comply with §1240.02 of this
chapter.
· Monument sign. A freestanding sign with its sign face mounted on the ground or mounted on a base at least as wide as the
sign and is less than sixteen (16) feet in height.
· On-premise sign. A sign whose message is related to the property or the activity and use occurring on the property on
which the sign is located. On-premise signs include multi-tenant identification signs that may advertise tenants on different
property provided such tenants are within the same approved PUD and parking is shared between properties.
· Outdoor advertising sign. Any sign that is located outdoors and that advertises a product, business, service, event, or any
other matter that is not available, or does not take place, on the same premises as the sign. Outdoor advertising signs are

commonly called billboards. An outdoor advertising sign does not include a sign that is not readily understandable or
readable from property other than where the sign is located, such as from adjacent property or a public street, as determined
by the City Administrator or their designee.
· Permanent sign. Any sign that is not temporary.
· Pole sign. A freestanding sign that is elevated off the ground by one or more poles.
· Portable sign. A temporary sign with or without copy and graphic that is designed or intended to be moved or transported
but not including banner signs. Examples of portable signs include, but are not limited to: A-frame or T-frame signs,
sandwich signs; signs designed to be transported by trailer or on wheels; and signs mounted on a vehicle for advertising
purposes, except signs identifying a business when the vehicle is being used in the normal day-to-day operation of that
business. A sign may be a portable sign even if it has wheels removed, was designed without wheels, or is attached to the
ground, a structure, or other sign.
· Projecting sign. A sign, other than a wall sign, that is attached to and projects more than eighteen (18) inches from the
building façade.
· Public sign. A traffic control sign in Minnesota State Statutes; any identification sign installed in a public park by a public
authority; and any other identification, regulatory, or warning sign approved by the City Council for installation on public land.
· Re-facing. The process of replacing the sign copy, message, logo, or graphic on a sign without altering or moving the
structure to which the sign face is attached.
· Roof sign. A sign that is mounted on the roof of a building or on a parapet wall that is above the roof line.
· Rotating sign. A sign or a portion of a sign which moves in a rotating oscillating or similar manner other than changing
signs.
· Service area canopy. Open air roof-like structure that projects from the wall of a building or is freestanding and is for the
purpose of shielding equipment and/or people from the elements; is often found covering service or gasoline station islands.
· Sign. Any written message, pictorial presentation, number, illustration, decoration, banner or other device that is used to
announce, direct attention to, identify, advertise or otherwise make anything known. For purpose of maintenance or
removal, the term "sign" shall also include frames and support structures.
· Sign area. The area in square feet of smallest rectangle, circle, or triangle that contains the sign copy.
· Sign height. The distance measured perpendicular from the highest point of the sign structure to the average elevation of
the street used for access to the property.
· Temporary sign. A sign designed to be displayed for a limited period of time that is not permanently affixed to the land or to
a structure.
· Wall sign. A sign attached to or erected against an exterior wall surface of a building or structure.
· Window sign. A sign mounted inside of a building within the window area that is applied or fastened to the window in a
manner that is intended to be viewed from outside the building.

Section 1220 - Permit and Review Process
1220.01 Permit Required.
Except for those signs listed in Section1230.01, no sign shall be erected, altered, reconstructed, maintained, moved, or
enhanced in the City without obtaining a sign permit from the City. The content of the message or speech displayed on the
sign shall not be considered when approving or denying a sign permit; however, the content must be submitted to evaluate
the sign copy area and to restrict permanent off-premise signs. A separate sign application shall be required for each sign.
1220.02 Application Process.
An application for a sign permit shall be on the City's official sign application. Unless waived by the City Administrator or
their designee, each application shall contain the following information or it shall be considered incomplete:
Subd. 1 Name, signature, address, and phone number of the property owner (required).
Subd. 2 Name, signature, address, and phone number of the applicant (if different than the property owner).
Subd. 3 Parcel ID of the property.
Subd. 4 A complete set of plans drawn to scale showing the necessary elevations, setbacks, size, and details to fully and
clearly represent the construction and place of the signs(s).
Subd. 5 Type of sign (wall, monument, pole, etc.).
Subd. 6 Certification by the applicant(s) indicating the application complies with all requirements of this Chapter.
Subd. 7 A separate building permit may also be required from the Building Official for signs involving new or modified sign
structures.
Subd. 8 If the applicant is not the property owner, the applicant shall obtain written permission from the property owner and

provide a copy to the City prior to approval of the permit.
1220.03 Review Process.
The City Administrator or their designee shall approve or deny the sign permit application in an expedited manner, no
more that thirty (30) days from the receipt of the completed application, including applicable fees. All permits not reviewed
within thirty (30) days shall be deemed approved. Applicants shall be notified in writing if the application is denied, including
the reasons for denial.
1220.04 Appeals Process.
Appeals shall be made to the Planning Commission in writing within fifteen (15) days of the confirmed delivery of the
denial letter for the sign permit application. The Planning Commission shall hold a hearing as soon as practicable but not
more than forty-five (45) days after confirmed receipt of the appeal to review the appeal and make a recommendation to the
City Council. The City Council shall review the Planning Commission's recommendation as soon as practicable but not more
than forty-five (45) days after the Planning Commission's recommendation.
1220.05 Fees.
Sign permit fees and the impoundment fee shall be set by the City Council by ordinance on an annual basis.
1220.06 Inspection & Enforcement.
Subd. 1 Inspection Authority. All signs shall be subject to inspection by the City Administrator or their designee, who is
hereby authorized to enter upon any property of premise to ascertain whether the provisions of this Chapter are being
obeyed. Such entrance shall be made during business hours unless an emergency exists.
Subd. 2 Signs in Disrepair. The City Administrator or their designee may order the removal of any sign that is not
maintained in accordance with the maintenance provisions of this ordinance. Upon failure to comply with such notice within
the time specified in such order, the City Council may declare the sign to be a public nuisance, impound it, and assess the
cost of removal to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
Subd. 3 Impoundment of Signs on Public Property or Within Public Right-of-way. The City Administrator or their designee
may, at any time and without notice, impound signs that have been installed on public property, within a public right-of way,
or within a public easement that are in violation of this Chapter. The sign owner or their agent may retrieve an impounded
sign subject to the following rules:
A. Payment of an impoundment release fee. Any subsequent impoundment(s), within one calendar year, for a particular
property or sign owner will require payment of double the initial impoundment release fee.
B. Any impounded sign may be retrieved from the impound area within three (3) business days of the impoundment or
the City Administrator or their designee may dispose of it. The impound area can be located by contacting City Hall. Any
cost incurred by the City for disposal of an impounded sign may be assessed to the sign owner or the sign owner's agent.
C. The City shall have no obligation to notify a property owner that it has impounded a sign.
D. The City shall not be held liable for any damage to an impounded sign.

Section 1230 - Exempt and Prohibited Signs
1230.01 Exemptions.
All signs shall require an approved sign permit prior to placement except for the signs specifically noted in this section.
Exempted signs shall not reduce the permitted signage for a property. These exemptions shall not relieve the owner of the
sign from the responsibility of its maintenance and its compliance with the provisions of this Chapter or any other law or
ordinance regulating the same.
Subd. 1 Government Signs. All governmental signs, including but not limited to traffic control and other regulatory purpose
signs, street signs, identification signs, informational signs, danger signs and railroad crossing signs.
Subd. 2 Non-commercial Signs in an Election Year. In years where a federal, state or local government election is
conducted within the city, non-commercial signs may be posted no more than 70 days prior to that election. These noncommercial signs shall be placed in accordance with Section 1230.02 and 1250.03 Subd 2, 3, and 4. Those responsible for
posting the signs shall remove any signs within 10 days following an election.
Subd. 3 Address Signs. Address identification not exceeding four (4) square feet in area for each structure or portion of a
structure with an assigned address. Street identification numbers are required in all sign districts and should be clearly
visible from the street.
Subd. 4 Exempt Residential Signs. Properties in Sign Districts 1 and 3 shall be allowed up to eight (8) square feet of
signage provided that a single sign is no larger than six (6) square feet, the signs are not illuminated, and freestanding signs
are at least five (5) feet from any property line.
Subd. 5 Temporary Off-premise Signs. Temporary off-premise signs as designated in Section 1250.03.
Subd. 6 Portable Signs. Portable A-frame, T-frame, sandwich , or other similar signs that do not exceed six (6) square feet
in size, are not illuminated, are located within fifteen (15) feet of the primary entrance to a building, and are displayed only
during the hours of business operation. No more than two of these signs shall be in place at any given time.

Subd. 7 Incidental Signs. Incidental signs or signs within a building provided that the sign is not readily visible from the
public right-of-way, adjacent properties, and are not illuminated.
Subd. 8 Window Signs. Window signs that are inside of a building shall not require a permit but shall be in accordance with
Section 1240.02 Table 1.
Subd. 9 Non-commercial Signs. Any sign display or device allowed under this section may contain, in lieu of other copy,
any otherwise lawful noncommercial message that does not direct attention to a business operated for profit, or to a
commodity service for sale, and that complies with the size, height and lighting requirements of this Chapter.
(revised 1/27/2020)
1230.02 Prohibited Signs.
The following signs shall be prohibited in all sign districts:
Subd. 1 Signs with Moving, Swinging, Revolving, or Rotating parts.
Subd. 2 Dynamic Display Signs. Dynamic display signs shall be prohibited, except as provided in section1240.04 of this
code section.
Subd. 3 Roof Signs.
Subd. 4 Projecting signs.
Subd. 5 Noncompliant Signs. Any sign not constructed, wired, assembled, attached or supported in conformance with
applicable building or other codes and regulations;
Subd. 6 Signs in the Right-of-way. Signs in the public right-of-way except as provided for in Section 1250.03, by Minnesota
Statutes, or allowed by the agency regulating the right-of-way;
Subd. 7 Signs attached to public utility poles, trees, street signs, stoplights, or fences;
Subd. 8 Permanent outdoor advertising sign, including billboards;
Subd. 9 Portable Signs. Portable signs shall be prohibited, except for portable A-frame, T-frame, sandwich, or other similar
signs that do not exceed six (6) square feet in size.
Subd. 10 Signs in the Clear Vision Area.
Subd. 11 Signs Imitating Traffic Control Signs. Signs which are designed to resemble official traffic signs except signs
which are used to control traffic on private property;
Subd. 11 Any sign, sign type, sign lighting, or sign technology not specifically listed as permitted in this Chapter shall be
prohibited.

Section 1240 - General Sign Regulations
1240.01 Regulation by Sign District.
For the purpose of regulating signs, the following nine sign districts are adopted:
District

Description

District

Description

1
2
3

All residential properties zoned R-1 or R-2.
All non-residential uses in the R-1 through R-4 zoning districts.
All residential properties zoned R-3 and R-4.
All properties fronting on County Road E east of Highway 51 except for those properties
with frontage on Lexington Avenue.
All properties fronting on Lexington Avenue South of Interstate 694.
All properties zoned for commercial or industrial use fronting on Lexington Avenue north of
Interstate 694, properties along Highway 96, and properties located in the B-1 zoning
district.
All properties in the I-Flex, Gateway Business, or other commercial or industrial district
without frontage on a roadway designated above.
All properties zoned Neighborhood Business.
The parts of the TCAAP area not fronting on Highway 96.

4
5
6
7
8
9

1240.02 Permitted Sign Type, Area, Height, and Illumination by Sign District.
All signs shall conform to the applicable standards in Table One: Sign Standards by Sign District. The following provisions
shall also apply:
Subd. 1 Wall Sign. Wall signs shall not extend more than eighteen (18) inches from the wall they are attached to.

Subd. 2 Freestanding Pole or Monument Signs.
A. No more than one freestanding sign shall be permitted on any site except in cases where properties front more than
one public street. For properties that front more than one public street, an additional freestanding sign may be permitted for
each street front provided that each additional freestanding sign does not exceed half the size of the maximum sign area
allowed for a freestanding sign in the underlying sign district.
B. The sign area of a freestanding sign shall only be calculated using one side of the sign. If the two sides are different
sizes, the larger side shall be used for determining sign area.
C. Freestanding signs in Sign Districts 4 and 5 shall be monument type ground signs with the copy resting on and
supported by a solid base of brick or rock-faced block in a color similar to or complimentary to the main structure on the site.
The material of the base must extend at least one-half way up the sides of the sign face.
D. Freestanding signs shall be located at least five (5) feet from any property line and shall not project over the property
line. However, if the bottom edge of the sign copy is not located at least ten (10) feet above the ground with supports that do
not encroach on the clear vision area of approaching traffic, the sign shall be located to preserve the clear vision area.
E. The total area of a freestanding sign shall not exceed 1.5 times the permitted sign copy area of a freestanding sign.
The total sign area includes all sign copy, graphics, decorative features, borders, and structural supports except for the
poles.
Subd. 3 Service Area Canopy. Each edge of a service area canopy facing a street is permitted twenty-five (25) square feet
of sign area in addition to all other sign area permitted on the site. Such signage may be illuminated externally, internally, or
backlit, but no other part of the face of the canopy shall be illuminated.
Subd. 4 Awnings and Canopies. No part of an awning or sun canopy shall be less than eight (8) feet or greater than twelve
(12) feet above grade. Any sign area on the awning, if illuminated, will be deducted from the permitted wall sign area. The
fabric or material used for the awning or canopy must be opaque and no internal illumination is permitted.
Table 1240.02 - Sign Standards by Sign District available in PDF, clickHERE

Subd. 5 Adult Use Signs. In addition to this Chapter, all adult use oriented signs shall comply with the sign requirements in
the Adult Use Ordinance. Where any provisions of this Chapter conflict with the Adult Use Ordinance, the provision that is
more stringent shall be applied.
1240.03 Manual Changeable Message Sign.
No more than thirty-five (35) percent of the actual sign area of a permitted sign in a non-residential sign district shall be

capable of displaying manually changing messages. The remainder of the sign area shall not have the capability to change
messages even if not used. Manual changing message signs shall not include dynamic displays.
1240.04 Menu Board Signs
All Menu Board Signs for fast food restaurant uses. Drive-through menu board sign are allowed for fast food restaurant uses
provided the requirements in this section are met.
Subd. 1. Location: All drive-through menu board signs shall be single sided and located adjacent to the drive-through lane
and shall not be located in any required setback. Signs may be affixed to the building.
Subd. 2. Height: A drive-through menu board sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet above grade in height.
Subd. 3. Size: A drive-through menu board sign shall not exceed forty (40) square feet.
Subd. 4. Number: Up to two drive-through menu board signs are permitted per drive-through lane. The total surface area of
the two signs shall not exceed forty (40) square feet.
Subd. 5. A Drive-through menu board signs shall comply with the following standards:
A. The images, colors, and text may not change more than five (5) times per day;
B. All images, colors, and text shall be static with no flashing, scrolling, or animation; and
C. At any time the business or drive-through is closed to the public, any Drive- through menu board sign shall be turned
off until the business or drive-through is open to the public.
D. Signs with speakers or intercoms shall be designed and located in a manner to direct noise away from adjoining
properties. Speaker noise shall not be audible to adjacent residential properties.
E. The sign(s) shall not be located as to impair the vision of the driver of a vehicle traveling either into, out of, or through
the drive-through lane.

Section 1250 - Special Provisions
1250.01 Allocation of Permanent Signs on Multi-Tenant Developments and Sites.
In multi-tenant buildings or sites, the permitted sign area and sign types, except for freestanding signs, may be installed by
each individual business establishment that has exclusive use of some portion of the street or otherwise primary level of the
building and direct access to the outside. Tenants located on the street or otherwise primary level in a center with a common
mall or atrium shall be considered to have direct access to the outside for the purpose of this section. The management and
ownership of any business establishment proposing to install signage must be separate and distinct from the management
and ownership of any other establishment in the same building or on the same building lot. Each establishment must be
separated from all other establishments by demising walls [as per the International Building Code] having no openings or
passages.
Subd. 1 Multi-tenant Buildings and Properties Sign Allocation. Signage for establishments occupying a multi-tenant building
or site but not located on the street or primary level of the building must be provided from the allocation of sign area and
type to the occupants of the street or primary level of the building as determined by the property owner.
Subd. 2 Freestanding Signs on Multi-tenant Buildings and Properties. For freestanding signs, a multi-tenant parcel shall be
considered one parcel and freestanding signs shall be permitted in accordance with Section 1240.02 Table 1. In the case of
multiple tenant sites, the permitted freestanding sign area shall be allocated by the property owner among its tenants.
1250.02 Temporary On-premise Signs.
Except as provided for in 1250.03, all other temporary signs shall require an approved sign permit prior to placing the sign
and shall conform to the following:
Subd. 1 Temporary Sign Permit Length. Temporary signs, including portable signs, streamers, pennants, banners,
balloons, inflatables or other similar object with a commercial message, may be displayed on three (3) occasions per
calendar year with a maximum of ten (10) days for each occasion. The three (3) occasions may be used consecutively with
one permit. Temporary sign permits are nontransferable to other properties or establishments on the same property.
Subd. 2 Single occupant parcels.
A. No more than one permitted temporary sign shall be permitted at any given time. The area of the temporary signage
shall not exceed one half of the permitted sign area as allowed in Section 1240.02 Table 1 for a particular sign type in the
underlying sign district;
B. Freestanding temporary signs shall only be permitted in districts where freestanding signs are permitted as allowed in
Section 1240.02 Table 1. If a conforming freestanding sign is already in place, the temporary freestanding sign shall be
attached to or near to the existing freestanding sign;
Subd. 3 Multi-tenant parcels.
A. Each individual business establishment that has exclusive use of some portion of the street or otherwise primary level
of the building and direct access to the outside qualifies for the temporary signs permitted in Section 1250.02 Subd 1. Sign
permits shall not be transferrable to other business establishments.

B. Temporary wall signage may be permitted for each individual business establishment that has exclusive use of some
portion of the street or otherwise primary level of the building and direct access to the outside. The total temporary wall sign
area for each tenant shall not exceed one half of the permitted permanent wall sign area as allowed in Section 1240.02
Table 1. Each business shall not have more than one wall or freestanding temporary sign at a time.
C. One temporary freestanding sign may be permitted for each individual business establishment that has exclusive use
of some portion of the street or otherwise primary level of the building and direct access to the outside. The total area of all
temporary freestanding signage for the parcel shall not exceed one half of the permitted area of permanent freestanding
signage for the parcel as allowed in Section 1240.02 Table 1. The total permitted temporary freestanding sign area shall be
allocated by the property owner or their designee among its tenants.
Subd. 4 Grand Openings. New businesses with grand openings are eligible for one additional temporary sign permit of any
type permitted in the underlying sign district with an approved permit. The sign may be in place for up to thirty (30) days
provided all other requirements in this section are met and the required permits are obtained. This eligibility shall expire six
months after the business opens.
Subd. 5 Lease or Vacant Space. Buildings or parcels with space for sale or lease may obtain a temporary sign permit for
one temporary wall or monument sign that does not expire until seven (7) days after the building or parcel is leased or sold.
A wall sign shall not exceed twenty-five (25) square feet in size and shall be used in place of a permanent wall sign. A
freestanding sign shall not exceed fifteen (15) square feet in size and shall be attached or immediately adjacent to an exiting
freestanding sign. All other provisions in this section 1350.02 shall apply.
Subd. 6 Temporary Sign Height. A temporary sign shall not exceed the height limits listed in Section 1240.02 Table 1 for a
permanent sign of a particular sign type in a given district, including inflatable signs and balloons.
Subd. 7 Sign Installation. Temporary signs shall be secured and well-constructed so as not to create a hazard to
pedestrians or vehicles.
Subd. 8 Illumination. A temporary sign shall not be illuminated.
Subd. 9 Location. The permitted location of all temporary signs are subject to change as determined by the City
Administrator of their designee in order to protect the public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics.
Subd. 10 Mounds View, Bethel University, and Northwestern College Banner Signs. Temporary banner signs for athletic
fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College shall be exempt from the provisions of this
section and shall comply with the applicable provisions of Chapter 1250.04.
1250.03 Temporary Off-premise Signs.
Each residential property is allowed up to five (5) freestanding, temporary, off-premise signs in the city right-of-way or on
private property provided the signs meet the standards of this section: (revised 1/27/2020)
Subd. 1 Sign Number Limit. Signs shall be four (4) square feet or less in size, and less than four (4) feet high;
A. Signs shall be non-illuminated;
B. Signs shall be within one mile of the property for which the signs are advertising (this provision does not preempt the
sign regulations for neighboring communities);
C. Signs shall be displayed no more than three consecutive days in any seven day period.
Subd. 2 Permission. The sign owner shall obtain permission from the property owner to place a sign on their property or
on property that shares a property line with the adjoining right-of-way where the sign is located.
The sign owner shall obtain permission from the property owner on which the sign is placed.The property owner may
withdraw that permission at any time.
A. Failure to obtain permission may result in removal of the sign.
B. Sign(s) are prohibited on land owned by the city, county, federal government and school district(s).
Subd. 3 Right-of-way Regulatory Authority. Sign(s) placed within city right-of-way, shall not be placed within five (5) feet
of the edge of the roadway pavement or curb.
Exception. If the five (5) foot distance places the sign on a trail or sidewalk surface then the signage shall be placed on
the dwelling side of the sidewalk.
A. Sign(s) placed in Ramsey County or State of Minnesota right-of-way shall be subject to Ramsey County and State
of Minnesota regulations.
B. Failure to obtain permission from the appropriate agency may result in removal of the sign.
Subd. 4 Disclaimer. The City of Arden Hills shall not be responsible for damage to any signs placed in the right-of-way.
1250.04 Temporary Banner Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University,
and Northwestern College.
Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have

temporary banner signs attached to the fences of their athletic fields provided that such signage faces the field of play so
that the impact of the signage is directed only to those utilizing the field or watching the sporting event, and not surrounding
property owners. In addition, to the greatest extent possible such signage shall not obstruct sightlines to the athletic field for
those watching the sporting event from the bleachers or other designated viewing areas. The content of temporary banner
signage shall comply with the sponsorship sign regulations as established by Mounds View High School, Bethel University,
or Northwestern College for their respective athletic fields. The City Administrator or Administrator's designee shall
determine if the signage is visible from a public roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College. If found to be visible, the signs shall comply with the following size limitations and
shall follow the sign permit process as described below:
Subd. 1 Individual Sign Area. Temporary banner signs shall not exceed fifty (50) square feet each.
Subd. 2 Total Signage Area. The temporary banner sign shall not exceed a massing of over nine hundred and sixty (960)
square feet in one area or a total of two thousand (2000) square feet.
Subd. 3 Time Limit. Temporary banner sign shall not be displayed for more than ninety (90) consecutive days or more
than one hundred and eighty (180) days during the calendar year.
Subd. 4 Permit Requirements. Sign permits shall not be required for individual banner signs but shall be required where a
new group massing of signage is requested.
Subd. 5 Compliance. The applicant shall demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this section (including but not
limited to: the dimensions of individual banner signs, the dimensions of that group of banner signs, and the total square feet
of temporary banner signs).
1250.05 Permanent Scoreboard Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel
University, and Northwestern College.
Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have
permanent scoreboard signage at their athletic fields that is clearly secondary to the overall appearance of the scoreboard.
Such signage shall face the field of play so that the impact of the signage is directed only to those utilizing the field or
watching the sporting event, and not surrounding property owners. The content of scoreboard signage shall comply with the
sponsorship sign regulations as established by Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College, for
their respective athletic fields. The City Administrator or the Administrator's designee shall determine if the signage is visible
from a public roadway or from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College. If
found to be visible, the signs shall comply with the following size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as
described below:
Subd. 1 Sign Area. Scoreboard signage shall not exceed thirty percent (30%) of the total scoreboard area, nor shall any
one scoreboard sign exceed fifteen percent (15%) of the total scoreboard area.
Subd. 2 Sign Permit Required. Since the scoreboard signs are permanent in nature, the applicant shall be required to
obtain sign permit approval prior to the installation of any new scoreboard sponsorship signs; at such time the applicant shall
demonstrate compliance with the provisions of this section.
1250.06 Permanent Signs for Athletic Fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and
Northwestern College.
Athletic fields at Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College may be permitted to have
permanent signage at their respective athletic fields. Such signage shall be permanent in nature and shall not be lit by a
direct lighting source. Signs may be an entrance gate style sign, signage affixed directly to a press box/grandstand, or
signage included on the scoreboard. Such signage shall be constructed of durable materials (finished metal, finished wood,
plastic). The City Administrator or Administrator's designee shall determine if the signage is visible from a public roadway or
from property outside of Mounds View High School, Bethel University, and Northwestern College. If found to be visible, the
signs shall comply with the following size limitations and shall follow the sign permit process as described below:
Subd. 1 Sign Area. The signage area of entrance gate signs shall not exceed thirty (30) square feet, the signage area of
press box/grandstand signage shall not exceed eighty (80) square feet, and scoreboard field naming signage shall not
exceed forty (40) percent of the total scoreboard area.
Subd. 2 Total Sign Area. The cumulative total of permanent signage shall not exceed two hundred (200) square feet.
Subd. 3 Sign Permit Required. Since the signage would be permanent in nature, the applicant shall be required to obtain a
sign permit approval prior to the installation of any new signage; at such time the applicant shall demonstrate compliance
with the provisions of this section.

Section 1260 - Sign Standard Adjustments
1260.01 Sign Standard Adjustments.
Adjustments to the requirements and standards for the height, number, type, lighting, area, and/or location of a sign or
signs established by this Chapter may be approved with a Site Plan Review or a Planned Unit Development process as
described for in Section 1320 and 1355 of the Zoning Code. This provision shall not be used to permit dynamic display
signage. In order to approve any sign standard adjustment, the following criteria of Subd. 1 or Subd. 2 shall be satisfied, and
the necessary criteria of Subd. 3 shall be satisfied:

Subd. 1 There are site conditions which require a sign adjustment to allow the sign to be reasonably visible from a street
immediately adjacent to the site;
Subd. 2 The sign adjustment will allow a sign of exceptional design or a style that will enhance the area or that is more
consistent with the architecture and design of the site;
Subd. 3 The sign adjustment will not result in a sign that is inconsistent with the purpose of the zoning district in which the
property is located or the current land use.

Section 1270 - Maintenance Repair
1270.01 Maintenance and Repair.
All signs shall be kept in good repair and free from peeling paint, rust, damaged or rotted supports, framework or other
material, broken or missing faces or missing letters. Any structure from which a sign has been moved or removed shall be
repaired with materials and/or painted or stained to match the existing background.
Subd. 1 Sign Permit Not Required. Activities considered normal maintenance and repair and not requiring a sign or
building permit shall include activities such as replacing or repairing lamps, ballasts, transformers, trim, sign fasteners, nuts,
or washers; painting the pole of freestanding signs; and painting the cabinet of freestanding signs or building signs.
Subd. 2 Sign Permit Required. For any sign that required a permit, the following activities shall not be considered normal
maintenance and repair a permit shall be required:
A. Re-facing a sign, except for the text on a manual changeable message sign.
B. Removing the sign for the repair of the cabinet or any part thereof.
C. Changes made to a sign's size or illumination, including, but not limited to, height, width, weight, area, adding or
removing illumination
D Changes in poles, structural supports, bases or shrouds, footings or anchor bolts, moving the sign to a new location, or
replacement of the interior or exterior cabinet frame, except the sign face.
Subd. 3 Building Permit. A building permit may be required for any signs involving the construction of or changes to a sign
structure and/or electrical connections as determined by the Building Official.

Section 1280 - Non-Conforming Signs
1280.01 Non-conforming Signs.
It is the intent of this Chapter that non-conforming signs shall not be enlarged or expanded, nor be used as grounds for
adding other signs or uses prohibited elsewhere in the same district. It is further the intent of this Chapter to permit legal
non-conforming signs to remain provided that such signs are safe, maintained so as not to be unsightly, and have not been
abandoned or removed subject to the following provisions:
Subd. 1 Non-conforming Sign Continuance. A legal non-conforming sign may be continued through repair, replacement,
restoration, maintenance, or improvement but shall not be expanded or moved to a new location.
Subd. 2 Non-conforming Sign Discontinuance. If the use of the non-conforming sign or sign structure is discontinued for a
period of one (1) year, the sign or sign structure shall not be reconstructed or used except in conformity with the provisions
of this Chapter.
Subd. 3 Non-conforming Sign Damaged or Destroyed. Should such non-conforming sign or sign structure be damaged or
destroyed by any means to an extent greater than fifty (50) percent of its market value or structure and all required permits
for its reconstruction have not been applied for within one-hundred eighty (180) days of when the sign or sign structure was
damaged, it shall not be reconstructed or used except in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter.
Subd. 4 Sign Regulation Conformance. Should such sign or sign structure be permanently moved for any reason for any
distance, it shall thereafter conform to the regulations for the sign district in which it is located after it is moved.
Subd. 5 Loss of Non-conforming Land Use. An existing sign devoted to a use not permitted by the Section 1320, Zoning
Ordinance, in the zoning district in which it is located shall not be enlarged, expanded or moved except in changing the sign
to a sign permitted in the sign district in which it is located.
Subd. 6 Loss of Non-conforming Status. When a building or use loses its nonconforming status, all signs devoted to the
structure or use shall be removed and all signs painted directly on the structure shall be repainted in a neutral color or a
color which will harmonize with the structure.

AGENDA ITEM – 3C

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers
Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

FROM:

Jake Reilly, Community Development Director

SUBJECT:

Zoning Code Revisions

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should discuss and provide direction to staff on a proposed timeline and remaining
questions related to draft code updates related to Chapter 11 – Subdivisions and Chapter 13 –
Zoning Code.
Background
A comprehensive review and revision of the City’s Code of Ordinances is underway by planning
consultant HKGi. The work program consists of four phases, and we are in the third phase: drafting
the major code updates to language and related formatting. The consultant has provided draft
language for Chapter 11 – Subdivision, Chapter 12 – Signs (reviewed in Item 3B) and Chapter 13
– Zoning Code.
Staffing changes at both the consultant firm and City unfortunately delayed the project, however,
the outcome of this meeting will define the path forward to adoption this year.
Proposed timeline:
• City Council work session, May 27, 2026 – Consider draft revisions to Chapter 11 –
Subdivisions and Chapter 12 – Signs and confirm approaches with Council
• City Council work session June 8, 2026 – Consider a redlined version of draft
Chapter 11 in entirety along with draft Chapter 13 sections: General Provisions
(1300), Introduction to Districts (1310), Overlay Districts (1330), and Administration
and Enforcement (1370)
Page 1 of 4

•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

City Council work session June 22, 2026 – Consider a redlined version of draft
Chapter 13 sections: Base District Regulations (1320), Use Specific Standards (1340),
Development Standards (1350)
Planning Commission meeting July 8, 2026 – Public hearing and consideration of
draft sign code ordinance
Planning Commission meeting Aug. 5, 2026 – Consider redlined versions of draft
Chapters 11 and 13
City Council work session, August 10, 2026 – City Council discusses final draft
formatted version of Chapters 11 and 13
(If needed) City Council work session August 24, 2026 – City Council and staff
address any lingering questions and concerns
Planning Commission meeting Sept. 9, 2026 - Planning Commission holds public
hearing on final drafts and makes recommendations to the City Council (tentative)
City Council meeting, Sept. 21, 2026 – City Council holds public hearing on final
drafts (tentative)
If needed: Planning Commission Oct. 7, 2026, regular meeting followed by City
Council authorization, October 26, 2026, regular meeting.

Draft Revisions to Chapter 11 – Subdivisions
Primary changes in the draft amendments to Chapter 11 – Subdivisions:
• Revise language associated with findings, scope, purpose, and definitions to be clear,
concise, and align with accepted professional practices, standards in surrounding
communities, and recent legal interpretations by state and federal courts.
• Align definitions between the newly adopted Public Works Street Design Manual and
Chapter 13 – Zoning and ensure consistency throughout the City’s code of ordinances.
• Move application procedures to an updated application manual (Similar to today’s
Appendix A).
• Update language associated with variances to match current state statute and legal
interpretations by state and federal courts since the subdivision ordinance was last
updated .
• Update language associated with public use and park dedication to align with state
supreme court decisions namely Harstad v. City of Woodbury, 916 N.W.2d 540 (Minn.
2018) and Puce v. City of Burnsville, 997 N.W.2d 49 (Minn. 2023). This section of the
code (1130.08 Public use Dedications) was last updated in 2015.
Secondary changes will include:
• Added/enhanced graphics/visuals to help guide applicants and the community.
• Revisions to language to be clearer, more concise, and consistent across the code
including using more plain or ordinary language to improve clarity and communication of
standards as well as reduce complexity for users of the code.
• When appropriate, remove or replace outdated language and align language with industry
standards.
Draft Revisions to Chapter 13 – Zoning Code
Before the consultant is able to finalize the draft language for formatting and provision to staff so
that the Planning Commission and Council can review the proposed changes in their entirety, the
City Council should consider how to address the following recommendations from the consultant
team:
• The consultant recommends a change to a requirement in the code that certain
development sites with approved plats and development agreements in place prior to
2008 go through the Planned Unit Development (PUD) process for changes to the site.
Page 2 of 4

This provision was adopted during the 2008 zoning code update and is found in Section
1320.085 Special Requirements for the B-2 General Business District and Section
1320.09 Special Requirements for the B-3 Service Business District.
In addition, Section 1320.10 Special Requirements for the B-4 Retail Center District and
1320.12 Special Requirements for the I-Flex District offer the option to either use a
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process or a PUD. Finally, Section 1320.075 Special
Requirements for the Single Family Residential District, 1320.08 Special Requirements
for the Neighborhood Business District, 1320.11 Special Requirements for the Civic
Center District, and 1320.13 Special requirements for the Gateway Business district
require the use of the Conditional Use Permit process.
Typical communities the size of Arden Hills are more likely to use the Site Plan Review
process for these types of changes. The types of changes Arden Hills sees in these
developed areas have been associated with the use – generally changing from one
permitted use to another, related signage, and other aspects of flexibility associated with
the site development, such as parking and landscaping. Less frequently, municipalities
use the CUP, which can be recorded against the property.
The consultant recommends the Site Plan Review process be used consistently in all
cases for these types of changes. Other alternatives to achieve consistency and parity
across zoning districts would be to require the same choices for all zoning districts,
whether through one or more of the following processes: Conditional Use Permit,
Planned Unit Development, or Site Plan Review.
•

The consultant recommends a maximum number of parking spaces in conjunction with
the minimum required number of off-street parking spaces. Today the code has
established a minimum number of off-street parking spaces for uses but has set no
maximum – or ceiling – to limit the total number of parking spaces provided by a
developer. The proposed addition is:
o Maximum parking. No more than 50% over the minimum required number of offstreet parking spaces shall be provided on a site. If more parking spaces are
desired over the maximum, a conditional use permit shall be required.
Establishing limits on the total number of parking spaces over and above the minimum
requirement is one way municipalities have sought to address economic and
environmental impacts of development on communities. Parking lots do not create
significant - if any - tax capacity for a community and therefore do not produce tax
revenue to support the infrastructure needed to get to and from the site, nor the staff time
or resources needed to address any public health, safety, or general welfare issues
associated with developments – existing and future. Parking lots are also a significant
source of impervious surface, contributing to the heat island effects common to urbanized
areas.
The City Council should consider the above information and discuss how to effectively
balance the often competing and/or conflicting interests of business owners and
developers and the economic, efficient, and environmental impact interests of the
municipality. Staff has identified the following approaches to providing sufficient offstreet parking spaces, while balancing market demand and the economic and
environmental health of the municipality:
Page 3 of 4

o Accept the consultant recommended maximum number of spaces equal to 1.5
times the required minimum, with a provision to go above the maximum:
o Example: A retail establishment with 3,000 square feet requires 1 parking
stall per 250 square feet of gross floor space, resulting in 12 required
parking spaces. The maximum number of parking spaces allowed is 18.
o Example: A restaurant with a maximum building occupancy of 80
(including staff) requires 1 parking space for every 4 people, resulting in
20 required parking spaces. The maximum number of parking spaces
allowed is 30.
o Example: A multifamily property with 35 studio/one-bedroom apartments
(1 space per unit) and 90 two+ bedroom apartments (2 spaces per unit)
would require 215 parking spaces. The maximum number of parking
spaces allowed is 323 parking spaces (fractional parking spaces are
rounded up).
o If any of those users wished to have more spaces, they could make an
application for a conditional use permit and would have to provide a
rationale for why they need more than the allowed maximum.
o Accept the consultant recommended maximum number of spaces and remove the
provision to allow for a user to apply for more than the maximum number of
spaces, putting the burden on the applicant to demonstrate need.
o Accept the consultant recommended maximum number of spaces and require a
conditional use permit application to have some number between the minimum
required and 1.5 times that minimum, putting the burden on the applicant to
demonstrate need. An alternative approach would be to use the conditional use
permit process and establish a different multiplier to get to an appropriate
maximum.
o Accept the consultant recommended maximum and leave no provision to exceed
that maximum, except for through the variance process, which would require the
applicant to demonstrate practical difficulties in meeting the provision.
o Do not establish a maximum.
o Take some other approach such as a different multiplier to get to a maximum.
The City Council is asked to discuss and provide further direction, if any, on the next steps.
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
Attachment A: Presentation

Page 4 of 4

Arden Hills
City Council Work Session
May 26, 2026

Attachment A

Sign Code Updates – Discussion

Presented by Jake Reilly, Community Development Director
Mayor David Grant
Councilmembers: Brenda Holden, Tena Monson,
Emily Rousseau, and Kurt Weber
City Vision Arden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting, strong residential
neighborhoods, vital business community, well-maintained infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our long-standing
tradition as a desirable City in which to live, work, and play.

1

Sign table recommended changes
Existing

Draft

Changes recommended by EDC:
 Reduce number of districts
 Associate sign area with building size
 Establish minimum and maximum
2

Existing Sign Table (enlarged for legibility)

3

Proposed Draft Sign Table (enlarged for legibility)

4

Graphic representation

5

Questions and discussion

Presented by Jake Reilly, Community Development Director

6

Arden Hills
City Council Work Session
May 26, 2026
Zoning Code Updates – Discussion

Presented by Jake Reilly, Community Development Director
Mayor David Grant
Councilmembers: Brenda Holden, Tena Monson,
Emily Rousseau, and Kurt Weber
City Vision Arden Hills is a strong community that values its unique environmental setting, strong residential
neighborhoods, vital business community, well-maintained infrastructure, fiscal soundness, and our long-standing
tradition as a desirable City in which to live, work, and play.

7

Proposed timeline:
Today: Draft
Chapter 11 –
Subdivision
initial review
and discuss
Chapter 13
questions

Aug. 5 –
Planning
Commission
review drafts
of Chapters
11 and 13

June 22 –
Review
drafts of rest
of Chapter
13

June 8 –
Review
drafts of
Chapter 11
and part of
Chapter 13

September –
begin official
adoption
process with
Planning
Commission
and Council

July 8 –
Planning
Commission
consider
sign
ordinance

August 10 –
Council
reviews draft
formatted
Chapters 11
and 13

8

Consultant recommendations to consider:
Address changes to developments established before 2008:

• Today – some districts use a Conditional Use Permit, some use a
Planned Unit Development, some offer the choice
• Consultant recommendation: use the site plan review process
• Other options?

Establishing a parking maximum:

• Today: no maximum
• Consultant recommendation : Maximum of 1.5x minimum with
option to apply for a conditional use permit to exceed the
maximum
• Other options?
9

Questions and discussion

Presented by Jake Reilly, Community Development Director

10

AGENDA ITEM – 3D

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers

FROM:

Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

SUBJECT:

City Council Code of Conduct/Norms of Behavior Discussion

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should review Resolution 2016-022 for City Council Norms of Behavior and provide
direction to Staff on next steps.
Background
At the April 14th Work Session, the City Council reviewed Resolution 2016-22 which is the City
Council Norms of Behavior. Council requested that staff verify if the League of MN Cities had a
template Code of Conduct policy that could be a starting point for this discussion. Additionally,
there was a reference to the Elected Officials Guide that LMC also produces. Staff were asked to
gather some of these resources together and share those with the Council for future discussion.
LMC states that generally policies will take one of two forms: either a values statement
expressing core principles for ethical conduct or a formal code of conduct. From the Minnesota
Mayors Handbook produced by the League of Minnesota Cities there is the following
suggestion:
•

Codes of conduct are written more like bylaws or regulations for an organization.
Generally, they prescribe explicit standards of behavior and provide for formal
complaints, hearings, and censure. For example, a code of conduct might state, “No
member may knowingly violate the Open Meeting Law.”

Included as Attachment D is a sample Code of Conduct created by the League of Minnesota
Cities Ethics Advisory Panel from the Minnesota Mayors Handbook.
Page 1 of 2

For Resolution 2016-22, the City Council should review to determine if this remains sufficient or
provide Staff with direction on updates for the Norms of Behavior.
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachments
Attachment A: Resolution 2016-22
Attachment B: January 3, 2024 Special Work Session Minutes
Attachment C: April 14, 2025 Work Session Minutes
Attachment D: LMC Sample Code of Conduct

Page 2 of 2

Attachment A

Attachment B

It
ARZEN HILLS
Approved:

February 12, 2024

CITY OF ARDEN HILLS, MINNESOTA

SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
JANUARY 3, 2024
5: 30 P. M. - ARDEN HILLS CITY HALL

CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL

Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, Mayor Grant called to order the Special City
Council Work Session at 5: 30 p. m.
Present:

Mayor David Grant, Councilmembers Brenda Holden, Emily Rousseau,
Tena Monson and Tom Fabel

Absent:

None

Also present: City Administrator Dave Perrault and League of Minnesota Cities Insurance
Trust ( LMCIT) Collaboration Services Manager Aimee Gourlay
1.

AGENDA ITEMS

A.

Council Discussion

with LMCIT Collaboration

Services

Ms. Gourlay said the goal is to give them the opportunity to discuss what they might like to do or

change about the Norms of Behavior/Code of Conduct, and what the process would be for
moving forward. She reviewed the items they hope to achieve; productive and efficient Council
meetings, improved teamwork and agreement on process. She asked if anyone wanted to add
anything else.

Council also requested to talk about respect and decency.
Ms. Gourlay said she would add that under meeting management. She explained the agenda and
said she had brought a short Code of Conduct summary from the League of Minnesota Cities. She

said the League doesn' t have a standard code as they are specific to each community. Some cities
have very detailed codes and Duluth has one paragraph. She expanded on the items they would be
discussing. The idea was to share and hear others ideas and incorporate as many considerations as
they could. The goal of a Code of Conduct is to increase their ability to have positive conflict that
helps get good outcomes, and decrease the likelihood of interpersonal negative conflicts that can
detract from making good decisions.
Ms. Gourlay explained the Norms of Behavior 2016 could be a starting point because it already
exists. Discussion was probably more important than the paper at this point.

ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION - JANUARY 3, 2024

2

Council discussed issues in the past related to processes and how they have or have not come to
agreement

on items.

Ms. Gourlay said it was about perceptions and how you' re feeling about the discussion. What
they seem to agree on the need to balance the meeting efficiency with making sure everyone' s

voice is heard and making sure the conversation is appropriate to the topic. They could talk about
how to move on when all opinions have been voiced.

If they feel like they' re hearing the same

thing and want to move on for efficiency sake, how does the Mayor know?
Council discussed how side comments or underhanded remarks affect decorum.

Ms. Gourlay said you' re probably not listening well if there are side comments, and people will

shut down if they' re hearing things as attacks. That is a part of meeting decorum. It can be
difficult if Councilmembers are speaking for long periods of time. So how do they balance
making sure everyone has a voice? Maybe everyone says their initial thoughts and has longer to
speak after that.

Ms. Gourlay thought there was already a divide about how they were feeling about respect. She
wondered if only some people were experiencing that or if it was a council -wide consideration.
Council discussed past issues or events that they have felt contributed to feelings of disrespect or
mistrust.

Ms. Gourlay thought getting to a point of understanding that could be another piece of the code.
And whatever code they come up with everyone has to be willing to go along with.

She watched

a video of a meeting but she didn' t see much of this dynamic.

Ms. Gourlay said there may be a need to address some of the past hurt in some way however,

something that can be helpful is to look at places they' ve been more successful and see how they
can take what is working and build on that.

Council discussed teamwork and their perspectives on information sharing.

Ms. Gourlay stated they' re talking about Code of Conduct, but it really keeps coming back to
this one issue. She asked what they needed to move forward.

Council discussed better communication moving forward and past issues, also discussed looking
forward not at the past when making decisions.
Council

discussed

adding

agenda

items

to formally

report

back to Council,

such

as,

Committee/ Commission updates.

Ms. Gourlay said one thing they were talking about was committee reports and separating that
from Council Comments.
They also talked about agreeing to disagree about the past and not
bring it up going forward. They talked about annual committee updates and sharing City goals.
Ms. Gourlay commented

that one of the things she' s observing

consensus because what they' re talking about keeps shifting.

is that it' s hard to get to

ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION -

JANUARY

3

3, 2024

Ms. Gourlay reiterated they wanted efficient meetings, to stay on appropriate topics, everyone' s
voice be heard, and to avoid personal comments. Some of the items they are considering would
address some of that list.

Ms. Gourlay said sometimes councils have struggles with how to get things on the agenda,
what' s the complaint process, or the process for taking something off the consent agenda.

Oftentimes it has to do with how things get heard. She wondered what' s the process for assigning
committees, is there an assumption that everyone gets a committee and similar types of things.

Council discussed adding committee/ commission reports to future agendas, and about tying it into
committee/ commission

liaison responsibilities.

Ms. Gourlay recommended they have a work session item for discussion of committee updates
before it be brought for a vote at a regular meeting so there is no misunderstanding of what the
policy will be. She asked if this session was a useful conversation.

Council discussed not bring up past issues when making decisions affecting the present and
future.

Ms. Gourlay said they should move forward with discussing the issues they talked about at work
sessions and if they would like her to come back she could. She could also arrange for not full
group discussions.

Ms. Gourlay said they remind her of good people with knowledge coming together from
different places but the team can' t come together.
Council thanked Ms. Gourlay for her time.
2.

COUNCIL/ STAFF COMMENTS

City Administrator Perrault said he had emailed two questions to the Council. The 2024 PMP
plan and was scheduled to be an item on the upcoming work session, did they prefer
to leave it on that meeting. Also, did they want to schedule a retreat, if so he will find a date.
was at 80%

Councilmember Rousseau would rather do a special work session on January 22 for the PMP,
and she would love to have a retreat in March or April.

Councilmember Monson was comfortable with having the PMP discussion on either date but
she could make January 22 work.
Mayor Grant explained there' s what they go in at and then there' s the bid.

So,

80%

was

probably close enough.

Councilmember Monson said then she was fine with it being on January 8 at 80%. She would
like to have city goals at a retreat but didn' t think they needed the personality piece.
Mayor Grant felt a retreat was the wrong way to approach it. He thought it would be better for
the group to look at some strategic topics and discuss them. He didn' t know if they needed

ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION — JANUARY 3, 2024

4

someone else to help them do that. He thought a facilitator would make it more touchy- feely and
they would probably waste time with ice breaker type stuff.
Councilmember Fabel agreed.

Councilmember Monson said she found Ms. Gourlay to be valuable in these discussions.
Councilmember Rousseau asked if they were going to go through the list of work session topics
at the next work session and prioritize them.
Mayor Grant was thinking more strategic than chickens or food trucks; he was worried more
about bigger things like trails and the fire station.

City Administrator Perrault said he was planning to include the list of work session priorities
on the next work session so Council can let staff know what they want to bring forward in what
order.

Councilmember Rousseau explained that things they see on the list as a priority could be what
they base a strategic plan on.
Councilmember Holden asked if they were going to update the Council Tracker.

City Administrator Perrault said past practice was they only removed things at Council
direction.

Councilmember Rousseau asked how they were moving forward with a Code of Conduct for
committees.

Ms. Gourlay said she had examples from other cities to send to the Mayor and Councilmember
Rousseau.
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Mayor Grant adjourned the Special City Council Work Session at 7: 09 p. m.

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David Grant
Mayor

$WWDFKPHQW&
ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION – APRIL 14, 2025

14

regarding how PTRC are going to pay for the parks is a priority, above some of the other items on
the list. We need to decide what is most important.
Councilmember Rosseau asked if it could be two Fridays vs. a Friday and Saturday.
Councilmember Holden can’t do 14 hours. Back to back days doesn’t work. In the past, it was
nice to take a step back and think about what was discussed.
Councilmember Weber asked if it had to be consecutive days.
City Administrator Jagoe didn’t ask that question. Her experience was the Friday/Saturday. She
will ask if there is an option to do a Friday and then a second Friday a month later.
Councilmember Weber said he could support that, with Hue Life. He is not interested in the
other proposal.
Councilmember Holden asked when it was decided it would be a Friday.
City Administrator Jagoe said she heard Council talk about a Friday.
Councilmember Monson said they did a similar session with the Fire Board. There were three
months between sessions. We can’t spread it that far because we will want this complete in time
for budgeting. It was nice to have that space between sessions.
Mayor Grant said we should try to keep the hours down, maybe not two full days.
City Administrator Jagoe will follow up with the consultant to see about scheduling two
sessions with some time between. She sought clarification if Council wanted to agree on
availability and see if it works for the consultant, or should we schedule it when they can fit us in.
Councilmember Holden said everyone needs to be at the first one.
Councilmember Weber said we will probably have to have the consultant say when they are
available and then move on it when we find a date that works for everyone.
City Administrator Jagoe said she will follow up on dates. She wanted to confirm that Council
plus the Directors and City Clerk should attend. She asked if there was anyone else that should be
included in the invitation.
Discussion ensued regarding start time, possible dates and what items will be focused on.
City Administrator Jagoe will discuss availability with the consultant and send out dates to
Council.
C. Council Norms of Behavior
City Administrator Jagoe said on March 10th, this item was brought to the Work Session along
with the Committee/Commission Code of Conduct Policy. The Council Norms of Behavior,

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION – APRIL 14, 2025

15

Resolution 2016-22 is being brought back for Council review. She asked Council if there are any
updates or changes, they want to make.
Councilmember Monson thinks the Norms of Behavior is a good place to start but she feels that
reading it, it was written in response to the dynamics that were happening at that time. She
provided something previously that more broadly discussed honesty and integrity. She thought we
could check with LMC to see if they have a template. She thinks the items are very specific.
Councilmember Weber said he went through all the chapters of the Elected Officials Guides on
the LMC site. He thinks the information is very comprehensive guidance for elected officials and
ethics guidance. He provided the information to City Administrator Jagoe. He requested she
share that information with the rest of the Council.
City Administrator Jagoe said she will pass that along to the entire council.
Councilmember Rousseau asked if City Administrator Jagoe would share that along with
Councilmember Holden’s notes, as well.
Councilmember Holden said in item #3, there is language regarding public testimony. She
believes the word ‘immoral’ should be removed. We shouldn’t use that word. We talk about being
respectful of one another but we also have to include resident interactions.
D. Twin Cities Gateway Funding Discussion
Mayor Grant said there is just under $20,000 plus some roll-over from the previous year. He is
grateful the Visitor’s Bureau allowed that. These funds need to be used to advertise and promote
events that will bring people into Arden Hills to use hotels and patronize our businesses. He
believes the ice swim event would qualify. We’ve used it for Rib Fest and Bethel Homecoming.
He reminded that we have the 75th Anniversary of Arden Hills coming in 2026. He asked Council
if they had any preference for prioritizing the list.
Councilmember Rousseau said she is interested in using half of the amount for Rib Fest and the
other half for the ice swim. She would like John Connelly to talk with Al Stauffacher to help
shepherd the process of the Regional Grant for the ice swim event. She understands they will do
that for a newer event. Mr. Stauffacher seemed interested in the ice swim. She said it seems like
we typically discuss this funding source in April. She wondered if the 75th Anniversary should be
on the list for next year, with all of the 2026 funds going towards that event.
Mayor Grant said that is the Council’s decision to make. He said the grant awards are based on a
formula. He said the numbers are holding and we can probably expect about the same amount
next year.
Councilmember Holden would like to use a little of the 2025 money to advertise a save the date
for the 75th Anniversary. She thinks we should send out one big flyer. A mailing is $2,000. She
thinks we should send out a mailing announcing that 2026 is the 75th Anniversary. Something that
advertises us as a City to all the residents and businesses. She isn’t willing to give it to Bethel.
They never even thanked us.
Mayor Grant isn’t aware if Staff has received any communication.

$WWDFKPHQW'
MINNESOTA MAYORS HANDBOOK
For example, “I serve the public interest when I recognize and support the
public’s right to know the public’s business.” Values-based codes generally set
aspirational “do’s,” while codes of conduct stress “don’ts,” as discussed below.
You can find a sample Statement of Values in Appendix F at the end of this
memo.

b.
See Appendix G: Sample Code
of Conduct.

Codes of conduct

Codes of conduct are written more like bylaws or regulations for an
organization. Generally, they prescribe explicit standards of behavior and
provide for formal complaints, hearings, and censure. For example, a code of
conduct might state, “No member may knowingly violate the Open Meeting
Law.” You can find a sample Code of Conduct in Appendix G at the end of this
memo.

c.

Enforceability

i.

Values statements

Because of the aspirational and sometimes subjective nature of values-based
codes, formal enforcement might be difficult and likely counterproductive.
Compliance is better left to the individual’s conscience.
ii.
Minn. Stat. § 410.20.

Codes of conduct

Charter cities may provide for recall of elected public officials in their charter.
However, recall of public officials is not possible in statutory cities. In addition,
there is no authority in state statute to provide for removal of a council
member by vote of the council or through application of a city-based ethics
policy. There is also no authority to levy fines for violations.
As a result, city codes of conduct for elected officials are generally enforced
through censure. Censure is a formal resolution of council stating that a
council member has violated the city’s ethical rules and expressing disapproval
of their actions.

IV. Mayor-council relationship
Because mayors of statutory cities lack significant individual authority, the key
to a successful mayor-council relationship often lies in recognizing the mayor’s
role (and its limits) and working from there to build productive partnerships
with fellow council members.

A. Meetings and the mayor-council relationship

Chapter 1 -36

MINNESOTA MAYORS HANDBOOK

Appendix G: Sample Code of Conduct
Created by the League of Minnesota Cities Ethics Advisory Panel – October 2009; Revised December 2017

___.01. Purpose.
The City Council of the City of _____ determines that a code of conduct for its members, as well
as the members of the various boards and commissions of the City of _____, is essential for the
public affairs of the city. By eliminating conflicts of interest and providing standards for conduct
in city matters, the City Council hopes to promote the faith and confidence of the citizens of
_____ in their government and to encourage its citizens to serve on its council and commissions.

___.02. Standards of conduct.
Subd. 1. No member of the City Council or a city board or commission may knowingly:
a. Violate the Open Meeting Law.
b. Participate in a matter that affects the person’s financial interests or those of a business
with which the person is associated, unless the effect on the person or business is no
greater than on other members of the same business classification, profession, or
occupation.
c. Use the person’s public position to secure special privileges or exemptions for the person
or for others.
d. Use the person’s public position to solicit personal gifts or favors.
e. Use the person’s public position for personal gain.
f. Except as specifically permitted pursuant to Minn. Stat. 471.895, accept or receive any
gift of substance, whether in the form of money, services, loan, travel, entertainment,
hospitality, promise, or any other form, under circumstances in which it could be
reasonably expected to influence the person, the person’s performance of official action,
or be intended as a reward for the person’s official action.
g. Disclose to the public, or use for the person’s or another person’s personal gain,
information that was gained by reason of the person’s public position if the information
was not public data or was discussed at a closed session of the City Council.
h. Disclose information that was received, discussed, or decided in conference with the
city’s legal counsel that is protected by the attorney-client privilege unless a majority of
the City Council has authorized the disclosure.
i. Represent private interests before the City Council or any city committee, board,
commission, or agency. (optional)
Subd. 2. Except as prohibited by the provisions of Minn. Stat. § 471.87, there is no violation of
subdivision 1 b. of this section for a matter that comes before the council, board, or commission
if the member of the council, board, or commission publicly discloses the circumstances that
74

MINNESOTA MAYORS HANDBOOK
would violate these standards and refrains from participating in the discussion and vote on the
matter. Nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit a contract with a member of the City
Council under the circumstances described under Minn. Stat. § 471.88, if proper statutory
procedures are followed.

___.03. Complaint, hearing.
Any person may file a written complaint with the city clerk alleging a violation of the standards
of conduct in section .02. The complaint must contain supporting facts for the allegation.
The City Council may hold a hearing after receiving the written complaint or upon the council’s
own volition. A hearing must be held only if the City Council determines:
1) upon advice of the city attorney, designee, or other attorney appointed by the council, that
the factual allegations state a sufficient claim of a violation of these standards or rise to
the level of a legally recognized conflict of interest, and
2) that the complaint has been lodged in good faith and not for impermissible purposes such
as delay.
The City Council’s determination must be made within 30 days of the filing of the allegation
with the city clerk. If the council determines that there is an adequate justification for holding a
hearing, the hearing must be held within 30 days of the City Council’s determination.
At the hearing, the person accused must have the opportunity to be heard. If, after the hearing,
the council finds that a violation of a standard has occurred or does exist, the council may
censure the person, refer the matter for criminal prosecution, request an official not to participate
in a decision, or remove an appointed member of an advisory board or commission from office.

75

AGENDA ITEMS – 3E1 and 3E2

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers

FROM:

Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

SUBJECT:

Use of City Property and Immigration Enforcement Discussion

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should discuss topic areas below and provide direction to Staff on next steps.
Background
At the February 9th Work Session, the City Council requested a recurring work session agenda
item to allow for discussion on topics related to immigration enforcement. Below are topics that
Council requested be brought back for discussion by the City Council related to immigration
enforcement. Council is asked to discuss these topics and provide direction to Staff on next steps
and/or removal of any particular topic(s) from the list and/or other topics that should be brought
forward under this agenda item for future discussion.
Use of City Property Policy/Ordinance (i.e., staging area)
At the May 11th Work Session, the City Council directed staff to bring back information on
amending the city code to regulate the use of city-owned parking lots (i.e., staging areas). Staff
worked with the City Attorney to prepare draft language that would address this concern. Below
is the proposed language for the City Council to discuss and provide feedback on. Following
Council discussion and direction, city staff would bring draft language forward to a future
regular meeting for adoption.
Section 397 – City-owned parking lots
397.001 Permit required.

Page 1 of 2

No event or activity is allowed in a parking lot owned by the city that will impede the normal course
of public activity in the parking lot without an approved permit. The application for the permit shall
be submitted at least fourteen (14) days prior to the event or activity on a form provided by the
City. No permit fee shall be required. The permit is subject to review and administrative approval
by the City Administrator or designee. The permit may be denied or revoked if it conflicts with or
significantly impedes the normal course of activity and public purpose of the public parking lot.
397.002 Enforcement.
The city administrator or designee shall enforce this section. In addition to any other remedy
available at equity or at law, failure to comply with this section may result in restrictions or
penalties as provided in chapter 1 of this code.

Other topics for further discussion
•

Sharing of Data and Access to City Buildings Policy
o Based on City Council direction at the March 9th and May 11th Work Sessions,
staff will be preparing a policy that will be brought forward to a future work
session for consideration.

Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
Attachment A: Draft City Code Amendment Section 397

Page 2 of 2

Attachment A
City of Arden Hills
Draft Ordinance Amendment
Section 397 – City-owned parking lots
397.001

Permit required.

No event or activity is allowed in a parking lot owned by the city that will impede the normal
course of public activity in the parking lot without an approved permit. The application for
the permit shall be submitted at least fourteen (14) days prior to the event or activity on a
form provided by the City. No permit fee shall be required. The permit is subject to review
and administrative approval by the City Administrator or designee. The permit may be denied
or revoked if it conflicts with or significantly impedes the normal course of activity and public
purpose of the public parking lot.
397.002

Enforcement.

The city administrator or designee shall enforce this section. In addition to any other remedy
available at equity or at law, failure to comply with this section may result in restrictions or
penalties as provided in chapter 1 of this code.

AGENDA ITEM – 3F

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers

FROM:

Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

SUBJECT:

Rice Creek Commons/TCAAP Discussion

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

For Council Consideration
Council will have the opportunity to comment on any TCAAP related items they so choose.
Background
N/A
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
N/A

Page 1 of 1

AGENDA ITEM – 3G

MEMORANDUM
DATE:

May 26, 2026

TO:

Honorable Mayor and City Councilmembers

FROM:

Jessica Jagoe, City Administrator

SUBJECT:

Agenda Planning

Budgeted Amount:
N/A

Actual Amount:
N/A

Funding Source:
N/A

Council Should Consider
Council should discuss its next Work Session agenda.
Background
Per Council’s adopted policy on agenda setting, please find the proposed agenda below for the
upcoming meeting.
June 8th Work Session
• Zoning Code Updates
• Immigration Discussion
• Agenda Planning (time sensitive)
• RCC/TCAAP Discussion
June 22nd Work Session
• Zoning Code Updates
• Immigration Discussion
• Agenda Planning (time sensitive)
• RCC/TCAAP Discussion
Attachment A is the list of topics that have yet to be discussed by Council and the ranking of
priority topics. Staff will begin to work on the higher priority items into upcoming Work
Sessions sooner while putting the lower priority items to later discussions. Please note, this does
not reflect all items at Work Sessions as Staff will have necessary items for discussion, such as,
budget discussions, concept plan reviews, or Public Works projects that need timely direction.
Page 1 of 2

Council may want to discuss whether any items need to be added to this list for future discussion
or assign a future meeting for some of these items. This would need to be done by a majority
consensus of Council.
Below is a running list of things Staff brings forward to Work Session annually, in recent years,
we have shifted away from bringing some items forward unless needed, such as, the Pavement
Management Update from Public Works. Note, these timelines may shift year to year. Most
items discussed at Work Sessions are one-off items that may require multiple meetings but are
usually not recurring.
• January
o Legislative priorities
• February
o None
• March
o Initial guidance on current year Public Works projects
• April
o None
• May
o None
• June
o None
• July
o Capital improvement planning
• August
o Operating budgets
• September
o Operating budget and levy discussion
o Committee/Commission Work Plans
• October
o None
• November
o City-wide budget and fee schedule
o Follow up on next year’s Public Works projects
• December
o Committee and commission appointments
Budget Impact
N/A
Attachment
Attachment A: Council Priorities
Attachment B: Agenda Setting Policy

Page 2 of 2

Attachment A
Topic for Consideration

Likely Responsible Department

Total

Average

Majority Next Steps

Short-term Rental Ordinance

CD/Admin

15

3.00

Council WS

Rental Licensing Program

CD/Admin

15

3.00

Council WS

Funding for Lake Johanna Boulevard Trail

PW/Fin

9

1.80

Council WS

Climate Action Plan

Admin

9

1.80

Council WS

Code of Conduct

Admin

8

1.60

Council WS

Encroachment Discussion (2025)/Adopt A Spot

PW

8

1.60

Staff Recommendation

Cannabis Discussion

CD/Admin

8

1.60

Council WS

Energy Audit

Admin

7

1.40

Staff Recommendation

Temporary Goats/Buckthorn

Admin

7

1.40

Staff Recommendation

Buy Nothing Day/Clean Up Day

Admin

6

1.20

Staff Recommendation

Community Survey

Admin

6

1.20

Council WS

Committee/Commission Liaison Role Policy

Admin

5

1.00

Council WS

EV Fleet Analysis

PW

5

1.00

Staff Recommendation

Added Items:
Data Center Moratorium
Lake Johanna Cold Plunge

Attachment B

CITY OF ARDEN HILLS
Agenda Setting Policy
The purpose of this policy is to establish a method for agenda setting that allows for Council to
review and have control over its agendas and decide as a Council how it wants items for
consideration to be brought forward.
For regular worksession agendas:
• Prior to concluding each regularly scheduled worksession, the City Council shall review
its next regularly scheduled worksession agenda and direct Staff on any changes.
• Should an individual Councilmember want to raise an item for discussion at the next
meeting or in the future, they would do so during this review period. The item would
need at least one other Councilmember to agree to having the item considered for future
discussion, and then Council, by majority, would direct to have it placed on a future
agenda or not.
• Staff will have flexibility to add or remove items to the worksession as needed to
maintain operational efficacy.
For regular City Council meeting agendas:
• Agendas will be largely Staff driven based on approvals needed for normal operations.
• Items coming from the City Council shall first be discussed at a worksession and can
direct Staff at said worksession to bring items forward for formal approval if needed.
• In rare instances, if a Councilmember brings forward an item that needs approval prior to
going to a worksession, they may request the City Administrator add the item to the
agenda. The City Administrator shall have the discretion to determine if the issue should
be added or not, but Councilmembers will make every effort to having the item first
discussed at a worksession.
Special meetings and emergency meetings:
• Special meetings and emergency meetings may still be called at the discretion of the
Mayor or any two Councilmembers, and the members calling the meeting shall set the
agenda.