Medicine Lake is in the process of developing a Subdivision Code. This process will take several months and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
What is it?
The Subdivision Code regulates the subdivision of land by prescribing rules and regulations which govern subdivisions, platting of land (including lot splits, lot line adjustments or lot combinations), and essential improvements. Subdivision regulations allow cities to ensure that new development or redevelopment meets the standards of the city for a safe, functional, enjoyable community, and protects and preserves the natural environment.
Zoning regulations and subdivision regulations are similar in some ways and may both impose regulations as to lot size, location, and improvements. A subdivision Code is different from the Zoning Code in that it does the following:
- Primarily governs the division of land and the layout of an entire development rather than the uses or buildings which may be placed on an individual lot
- Typically regulates projects that are larger in scope
- Usually imposed at the initial development or redevelopment phase of a project (whereas zoning is applicable during the development phase of a subdivision and through the life of the completed subdivision).
- Allows for the collection of development-related fees
Why is the City doing this now?
Medicine Lake is unique among most other cities in the Metropolitan Area in that it does not currently have a Subdivision Code. City Council has noted that the completion of several major projects, including the installation of fiber and connection opportunities to the City of Plymouth’s water supply, may increase the potential for property to be subdivided, or combined and replated within Medicine Lake. Recent statewide legislation affecting land use and zoning may also increase the pressure for subdivision and redevelopment. While many parcels in the City are not subdividable under current zoning guidelines, some have the potential to be combined and re-platted (subdivided).
Getting ahead of the potential impacts of future development demand by implementing a subdivision ordinance that clearly prescribes the city's requirements for developers interested in subdivision or redevelopment will benefit the City in the long term.
Potential Subdivision Code Topics
The following list outlines the major sections the City anticipates including in the Subdivision Code. Please note that this list is subject to change as the process evolves over the next few months.
- Procedures and Enforcement: This section will specify the types of subdivisions that are possible in the City, the procedures that the City will use to review and make decisions on subdivision applications, and enforcement actions which may be taken if the code requirements are not followed.
- Design Standards: This section will include the design requirements for elements of land being subdivided, including:
- General (Land Suitability)
- Blocks and Lots
- Streets
- Sidewalks and Trails
- Easements
- Utilities
- Erosion and Sediment Control
- Improvements: This section will cover specifics on the process for installing certain public improvements.
- Park Dedication: This section will clarify the City’s requirements for dedication of land for parks and open space as allowed by Minnesota Statutes.
Opportunities for Input
There will be several opportunities for community input on the Subdivision Code throughout the process. This webpage will be updated periodically with more information and with opportunities for input as the project progresses. Keep an eye out for updates in the City Newsletter (the Laker) and on social media pages.
Contact
If you have comments or questions on the topics listed above or about the Subdivision Code in general, please email [email protected]