Council adopts updated wireless facilities rules to streamline approvals and reflect new technology

The City Council adopted changes to the city's zoning code governing wireless communications facilities, updating standards and clarifying an administrative approval path.

Executive Director of Development Services Griffin explained the update affects cell towers and building-mounted wireless equipment. He said the city's prior ordinance dated to the early 2000s and had become outdated; carriers reported the city's height and technical standards did not meet contemporary needs. The amendments add modern definitions, allow taller structures where appropriate, create an administrative approval pathway with appeals to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council, and revise landscaping/screening requirements to offer nonlandscaping alternatives for base equipment screening.

Griffin said staff used a model ordinance and sought feedback from carriers. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the changes on Dec. 12 and recommended approval. No public comment was offered at the hearing. Councilmembers discussed whether existing towers would be affected; Griffin said the ordinance primarily applies to new sites but carriers can use the updated rules if they seek to modify existing sites.

Council voted to adopt the ordinance amendments; the motion passed unanimously.