21.43.400 Accessory structures and uses.
A. Private Garages and Carports. Private garages and carports are allowed in the RML, RMM, and RMH zones as long as they adhere to the side yard, rear yard and front yard setbacks as required herein for the applicable zone. In the RML zone, where more than one dwelling unit is involved, private garages shall be limited to accommodating not more than two cars for each dwelling.
B. Solar Energy Systems. The use of solar energy systems (for example, attached solar greenhouses, attached solar sunspaces, and solar collectors) can be an effective and efficient method for producing energy and reducing energy consumption. The majority of residential structures within Lynnwood were constructed before solar energy systems became a viable means for producing energy, thus lot yard setbacks and height restrictions do not take such systems into account. The city of Lynnwood finds that it is in the best public interest to encourage solar energy systems. If it is found that a solar energy system would have a positive impact on energy production and conservation while not having an adverse environmental impact on the community, but the placement of such system requires violation of city setback or maximum height limitations, allowance of such systems may be permitted through the variance process and shall be encouraged. In viewing such variance request, the following shall be considered in making a determination:
1. That the solar energy system has a net energy gain;
2. That the solar energy system is designed to minimize glare towards vehicular traffic and adjacent properties;
3. That the solar energy system not adversely affect solar access to adjacent properties;
4. That the solar energy system complies with all other city zoning, engineering, building, and fire regulations; and
5. That the solar energy system is found to not have any adverse impacts on the area, which impacts shall include, but not be limited to, the effects of such system upon the views from neighboring properties and public ways.
In order to show that the proposed energy system will conform to the above, the applicant shall be required to submit a site plan and elevations showing the location, size, and dimensions of the solar energy system and its relation to all adjacent properties. Care shall be taken to ensure that the design, materials used and colors architecturally blend in with the existing structure. The city may require that the site plan and elevations and/or energy-saving calculations be prepared by an engineer, architect or builder specializing in solar energy construction.
C. Family Child Care Homes. Family child care homes are permitted as an accessory use to a dwelling.
D. Keeping Small Animals as Pets. The keeping of small animals as pets shall be permitted as an accessory use; the keeping of livestock shall not be permitted.
E. Carnivals, Circuses, and Other Temporary Special Events. These uses are permitted if accessory to a school, place of worship, park, or other facility of a similar nature. Such activities shall not be subject to regulation by Chapter 5.30 LMC.
F. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations. Level 1 and Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations are allowed as an accessory use but shall be privately owned with restricted access (e.g., renters of a multiple-family dwelling complex, employees and members of the congregation in the case of a religious institution). The electric vehicle charging station shall not be open for use to the general public.
G. Shipping container or other similar storage units as defined in Chapter 21.02 LMC are not permitted as accessory structures in residential zones. (Ord. 3415 § 24, 2022; Ord. 3127 § 4, 2015; Ord. 3047 § 3, 2014; Ord. 2586 § 3, 2005; Ord. 2466 § 2, 2003)