Chapter 17.81 — GARAGE CONVERSION — Greenfield Zoning Code

§ 17.81.010. Purpose And Intent. ¶

The purpose of this chapter is to regulate the conversion of garages from space for parking of vehicles into livable space in residential zoning districts and on residential property. Implementation of this chapter is intended to provide residential property owners with an affordable way to increase the amount of livable space for existing residential dwellings while maintaining the residential character of the area. If a garage conversion will result in the creation of an independent dwelling unit, whether permanent or temporary, on the property, the provisions of chapter 17.90 pertaining to accessory dwelling units shall also apply to such conversions. (Ord. 509 § 1(part), 2015)

§ 17.81.020. Allowed Use. ¶

A. Conversion of a garage into livable space shall be allowed in all residential zoning districts in compliance with the development standards as set forth in this chapter.
B. In single-family residential zoning districts, the conversion of a garage into livable space cannot create an accessory dwelling unit except as provided for in chapter 17.90 . A garage conversion into livable space cannot be subsequently converted into a second dwelling except as provided for in chapter 17.90 .
C. In multiple-family and high density residential zoning districts, the conversion of a garage into an accessory dwelling unit is allowed to the same extent as and under the same development standards that apply to the development of multiple dwelling units on a single residential parcel as set forth in section 17.30.040 .
(Ord. 509 § 1(part), 2015)

§ 17.81.030. Development Standards. ¶

Conversion of garages into livable space in residential zoning districts is subject to the following development standards. The same standards apply to front entry, side entry, or rear entry garages, whether attached or detached.

A. The conversion of any existing garage into livable space shall be in compliance with all applicable building codes and city ordinances, and a building permit shall be issued prior to any such conversion.
B. The development standards set forth in section 17.30.040 for the underlying residential zoning district shall apply to all garage conversions.
C. Off-street parking in accordance with section 17.58.050 shall be provided, including, but not limited to, requirements for enclosed or covered and uncovered off-street parking spaces.
D. Design review shall be in accordance with section 17.16.070 .
E. The exterior materials, colors, and design for the garage conversion must match and be architecturally consistent with the materials, colors, and design of the existing dwelling, and if the garage is attached to the main dwelling, the conversion must become an integral part of the existing dwelling.
F. The garage door and all necessary remnants shall be removed; a concrete foundation, if required, shall be constructed at the garage door opening in accordance with applicable building codes; and the garage door opening shall be treated with building materials and design detail to match the remainder of the dwelling.
G. An in-ground or raised landscaped planter, thirty inches (30") in depth, shall be installed between the driveway and the former garage door. The planter depth may be reduced if necessary to maintain a minimum eighteen foot (18') long driveway, measured from the back of the sidewalk to the landscaped planter.
H. Entry into an attached converted garage must be available from the existing dwelling.
(Ord. 509 § 1(part), 2015)