Anchorage changes regulations for land use

  • 2016-04-30
The Anchorage Assembly recently passed an ordinance changing parts of the land-use regulations of the city, and removing others.

Assemblyman Patrick Flynn proposed the ordinance at a meeting on April 12. His proposal was a revised and reduced version of the same legislation proposed by Assemblywoman Amy Demboski in March. Flynn's proposed ordinance did not change as many of the regulations as Demboski's had, but it did go along with others.

Among the changes both Assembly members proposed was eliminating a building rule mandating that a building on a steep slope cannot have a height 25 feet higher than the original grade. The proposed ordinance would also shrink the required size of windows on buildings facing the street. Flynn notes the changes mean residents would be allowed to build taller structures on steep hillsides, and that the Assembly might have made a mistake about window sizing.

However, the changes are temporary, since a sunset provision contained in the ordinance means they will expire at the end of the year. Flynn said the transitory measures will allow construction that has been suspended to move forward during the summer months. It will also give the Assembly extra time to consider how to deal with issues raised by the land-use regulations adopted two years ago.

City officials might consider creating Brochures for Mailing to residents, explaining these measures and asking for input.
Get a Free Quote for Mailing Get a Free Quote for Brochures