Boulder City Council last week approved a suite of land-use changes, including allowing a broader range of businesses and organizations to seek permission to build three-story buildings up to the city’s 55-foot height limit.
Under current rules, developers can request height modifications through the site review process to exceed standard zoning limits, typically about 35 feet. Those exemptions are generally used for pitched roofs or equipment clearance.
The ordinance adds new scenarios for buildings used for community, cultural, educational, recreational or entertainment purposes, such as museums, theaters and athletic facilities. Buildings would still be capped at three stories and must fall within the city charter’s 55-foot limit.
Brad Mueller, the city’s director of Planning and Development Services, said the change is partly intended to support Boulder’s arts and culture community. He said museums need higher floor-to-ceiling heights for certain exhibits and theaters need room for flying scenery.
“There’s a bit of a renaissance in the community in terms of space and desire for space,” he told councilmembers.
The ordinance also included a provision allowing property owners to keep existing driveways after converting a garage into living space. Previously, an unintended consequence of city code required owners to remove driveways even when used for off-street parking.