Conditional Use Permits (CUP)
updated: Wednesday, December 07, 2011A conditional use is a land use activity that cannot be classified as a permitted use in a particular zoning district because of unique characteristics that require extensive review. Each zoning district has uses that are classified as conditional. For example, gas stations and drive-through windows are classified as conditional uses in the C-2 "General Commercial" zoning district. The City Council classifies uses as conditional if the use might result in negative impacts for surrounding property owners. The CUP process allows the use to occur, but ensures that appropriate measures are taken to avoid potential negative impacts.
The CUP application procedure begins when a property owner applies to conduct a use which is classified as conditional in a particular zoning district. The applicant first works with City Staff to ensure that the complete application is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and meets all the conditions for the use listed in the Zoning Code. Next, the applicant will go before the Planning Commission; at that meeting, a public hearing is held regarding the proposed use. Finally, CUPs are approved by the City Council after the Council has an opportunity to consider the impacts of the use upon surrounding properties, the city as a whole, and the advice of the Planning Commission. The CUP process can be as short as two months from the date of application to approval by the City Council.
