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This page will cover Zoning topics that relate to Code Enforcement. If you do not see what you are looking for here, please give us a call at 625-6083. You may also try the Planning Department's website, or the Building Department's website for zoning subjects not covered by Code Enforcement. Click on the following links to take you to the topic text: Bee Keeping Noise Variance Home Business Regs.
Code Enforcement regulates violations of sign code on private property. For a complaint form or to fill out an on line complaint click here. The Street Department regulates violations of sign code in the right of way. To contact them, please call 509-232-8800. For a summary of sign code regulations, click here. For complete sign code regulations, contact the Planning department at 509-625-6300 or see Chapter 17C.240 of the Spokane Municipal code, click here. Where is bee keeping allowed? It is allowed as an accessory use on any lot occupied by a single-family residence that is in the RA, RSF, RTF, RMF and RHD Zones. Beekeeping for educational or research purposes by and institution such as college, high school or agricultural extension officer is also allowed. Do bee keepers have to follow any guidelines? Yes. They are as follows: 1. The number of colonies is limited to one colony per four thousand three hundred fifty square feet of lot area up to a maximum of 8 colonies. 2. The colonies must be set back from the property line a minimum of twenty-five feet. There are three exceptions to this rule. To read these exceptions please click here. 3. The colonies must be maintained in movable-frame hives with adequate space and management techniques to prevent overcrowding and swarming. 4. In any instance in which a colony exhibits aggressive or swarming behavior, the beekeeper must re-queen the hive. 5. An adequate supply of water shall be maintained close to each colony. 6. All colonies must be registered with the director of the state department of agriculture no later than April 1st of each year. 7. The beekeeper must have completed the requirements for apprenticeship level of the Washington State Beekeeper's Association master beekeeper certification program. To read the entire Beekeeping section of the Spokane Municipal code click here. A noise variance request is a request to vary from compliance to Section 10.08.020 of the Spokane Municipal Code. Section 10.08.020 controls the level of noise in an area, and defines what is considered "public disturbance noise". Variances 1. Variances are allowed for public events only. You may not apply for a variance for a private party. 2. Variance requests must be submitted at least 5 business days before the event, preferably sooner. 3. After receiving the variance request the City may issue the variance if it is decided that the noise level violations cannot be avoided, will exist for a specific period of time and have been mitigated to the greatest extent reasonably possible. A written decision will be issued. 4. The person obtaining the written variance must have it posted in a viewable area or on their person when their event takes place. 5. The approval does not imply approval of other aspects of the event. Street Closure and Block Parties are reviewed by Engineering Services and Special Events are approved by the Spokane Police Department @ 835-4575. The fire department contact is at 625-7041. 6. The decision regarding the variance request may be appealed to the hearing examiner within ten days of the decision. Click here to review the entire Spokane Municipal code regarding noise. Click the button below for a copy of the Noise Variance Request form:
The purpose of the home occupation regulations is to facilitate small unobtrusive business uses at a residence. By allowing home occupations with limitations, traditional businesses occurring in the home will be allowed to continue while protecting the character of the neighborhood. A Home Occupation is a business or professional enterprise that is incidental and accessory to the primary residential use of the home. A home occupation should not alter or detract from the residential character of the residence. The Following restrictions apply: 1. Structural alteration to accommodate the occupation is not permitted 2. Unless required by code, a separate outside access to the business is not permitted. 3. The business, including storage, does not occupy more the 25% of the floor area or more than 200 sq. ft 4. The business may not occupy any accessory structure, including an attached garage. 5. No more than 2 people can be engaged in the home occupation. This may consist of either one family member and one nonfamily member or two family members. 6. The only commercial advertising allowed is one non-illuminated sign with the name and occupation, up to three square foot in area, placed flat against the building. 7. No window or outdoor display allowed 8. Any stock of goods has been produced on the premises. 9. No equipment allowed that produces vibration, noise, dust, smoke, odor, or electrical interference to the detriment of surrounding residences. 10. There should be no deliveries or shipments to or from the business that would involve commercial motor vehicles or suggest a need for a customer parking area. 11. The property must maintain a residential appearance and character. Examples of acceptable home businesses are: 1. Barber or beautician 2. Dressmaking 3. professional consulting 4. Custom floristry 5. Photography 6. repair of watches or small appliances Examples of unacceptable home businesses are: 1. Auto repair 2. contractor storage area, including vehicles 3. Adult or group home 4. Repair of large appliances or furniture 5. tea room or reception spaces for rent , including outdoor areas 6. bed and breakfast or hostel 7. Woodworking and cabinetry Click here to read the Home Occupation standards in the Spokane Municipal code.
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