Draft chapter 166: Establishment of Zoning Districts and the Official Zoning Map

§ 166.17 General Commercial District (C-2b)

The 2026 draft's § 166.17 beside the current code's Zoning § C-2B.01, Zoning § C-2B.02, Zoning § C-2B.03, Zoning § C-2B.04, Zoning § C-2B.05, Zoning § C-2B.06, Zoning § C-2B.07, Zoning § C-2B.08, Zoning § C-2B.09, Zoning § C-2B.10, Zoning § C-2B.11: removed words are struck through, added words underlined.

Comparison with a draft: not adopted. The archive holds no public hearing, ordinance or vote adopting the recodified Code through the October 20, 2026 meeting packet. Until one is adopted, every page here compares the consolidated code with a draft that can still change: the revised draft with the October 6 changes is not in the archive.

A comparison with the August 2026 draft recodification prepared by Iowa Codification for the City. The draft has not been adopted and can still change; the current code (unofficial compilation) governs until a recodified Code is adopted. Matches between sections are made by machine from the texts and are reviewed where uncertain.

Merged largely rewritten (30% same words)

Ord. 2013-333, 2017-393 amend this part of the current code in ways not read to its sections: some differences may come from those ordinances, not from the draft.

Notable changes

  • Amount or number: …plans for the placement of no less than 1 4 deciduous tree for each acre or less of…
  • Amount or number: …for each acre or less of zoned area. Each parking space should be no more than 40 feet from a deciduous tree. The city review may also request additional landscaping…
  • Permit, license or registration: …to the provisions of Section 9.05 and Section 9.21. EXCEPTION USES 165.25. B. A retailer or community group as defined in Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, who possesses and complies with all requirements of a consumer fireworks seller license issued by the State Fire Marshal, may sell consumer fireworks from a temporary structure in this zoning district, but only during the dates and times as allowed under Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, and provided there is al… Special exceptions, as hereinafter listed in the following…
  • Permit, license or registration: …designee. The landscaping plan must be appropriate to Building Permit approval. Site plans in the zone and must be submitted at the…
  • Permit, license or registration: …esthetic, attractive and orderly development of the area. REGULATIONS 12. Screening and Buffering Regulations. Commercial zones shall supply a screening and buffering plan for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, or other City designee, prior to application of a Building Permit. At a minimum the proposed plan shall show screening in compliance with the following: A. Waste collection stations shall meet the Variable Height Screening (S2) requirements of Sect… A. Residential uses are not permitted. B. All…
  • Permit, license or registration: …parked motor vehicles. STANDARDS All business establishments and activities must conform savings and loan associations. 14. Performance Standards. A. Performance standards regulating commercial development and activity within the City are intended to: (1) Permit commercial land uses to the performance standards established for the M1-M2…

What changed

AND DESCRIPTION OF DISTRICT To encourage 1. Description of District. The General Commercial District is a high intensity commercial district intended to provide the development total service needs of commingled retail, service, the motoring public using the major highway/Interstate system through and office uses adjacent to the City and to require adequate space provisions to accommodate needs of the motorist. It is further intended to provide areas in close proximity to the major Interstate network and discourage through traffic on minor and local residential streets within the community. The C-2B District is an intensive commercial classification in which the commingling or many retail, service, City. This district should be well buffered from low and office uses are permitted. Structures located in this district may vary from freestanding building to larger community shopping centers. Shopping centers that minimize curb cuts and signage, while maximizing aesthetics, are the preferred type of development in this zone. As this classification presents compatibility problems with less intensive classification, great care must be taken in mapping the C-2B zone. Normally, this district is located only at the convergence of major arterial thoroughfares. medium density housing by C-1A C-1B, R-8, R-12.
USES AND STRUCTURES PERMITTED Permitted uses of land or buildings, as hereinafter enumerated, may be permitted in the C-2B District only in accordance with conditions specified. Only those uses specifically listed hereunder may be considered permitted uses, and no building or lot may be devoted to any use other than a use permitted hereunder, with the exception of:
2. Principal Uses and Structures Permitted as listed Permitted. Principal uses and structure permitted shall be identified in the following Table C. Section 166.20.
AND TEMPORARY USES & STRUCTURES 3. Accessory and Temporary Buildings and Structures.
A.
Accessory and temporary uses or structures according to the provisions of Section 9.05 165.11 and Section 9.21. 165.25.
EXCEPTION USES B. A retailer or community group as defined in Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, who possesses and complies with all requirements of a consumer fireworks seller license issued by the State Fire Marshal, may sell consumer fireworks from a temporary structure in this zoning district, but only during the dates and times as allowed under Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, and provided there is also compliance with the following:
(1) For purposes of Paragraph B, “temporary structure” means a tent, canopy, stand, or similar enclosure that is not permanently affixed to the land, which is not intended for permanent use, and is erected for the sole purpose of retail sales of consumer fireworks.
(2) The temporary structure and site plan for the temporary structure and its use must be approved by the Building Official.
(3) Proof of a valid and current license, and any additional requirements which are a part thereof, issued by the State Fire Marshal, shall be furnished to the Building Official, with a copy of any application for the license, and any attachments, provided to the State Fire Marshal.
(4) Proof of maintenance of commercial general liability insurance required by Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa shall be furnished to the Building Official.
(5) If the retailer or community group does not own the land where the temporary structure is proposed to be located they shall provide proof of consent from all current property owners.
(6) The use of the temporary structure may not adversely impact the surrounding area and land uses, which must still comply with all City Code requirements.
(7) The temporary structure and its use must comply with all State, federal, and local laws, and regulations.
(8) The temporary structure must be removed by July 15 of each year.
4. Restricted Permitted Uses. Restricted uses, as hereinafter listed in Section 166.20, may be allowed subject to the issuance of a restricted use permit by the Zoning Administrator, as required by Section 165.30. Restricted uses may be required to meet more restrictive site and structural provisions if it is determined such requirements are necessary.
5. Special Exception Uses.
Special exceptions, as hereinafter listed in the following Table C, Section 166.20, may be allowed subject to the issuance of special use permits in accordance with the provisions of Section 11.07.
165.27(7). Special exceptions may be required to meet more restrictive site and structure provisions if the City Council, acting upon the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, determines that such requirements are necessary to for the public, health, safety public health safety, and general welfare. welfare
REQUIREMENTS 6. Area Requirements. The minimum area that may constitute a separate or detached part of the C-2B zoning district C-2 District on the City of Tiffin Official Zoning Map, or subsequent amendments to the Map, map, must be two (2) acres. However, land zoned in the C-1A, C-1B, C-1O, and/or C-3, or C-1S zoning districts Districts that immediately abuts or is directly across the street from land zoned in the C-2B classification, C-2, may be included in the calculations in meeting the minimum requirements.
The minimum area, setback, density density, and maximum height, may be as prescribed in the following Table C; Section 166.20; provided however, the following requirements must shall be applied when applicable:
A. Any lot adjacent to U.S. Highway 6, in any way, must shall be required to have a 20-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirements stated herein, except those properties that are located adjacent to U.S. Highway 6 beginning at the east line of Main Street to a point 233 feet, more or less, west of the intersection with Roberts Ferry Road and U.S. Highway Six, 6, which must shall be required to have a 32-foot setback, in addition to the minimum yard requirements state stated herein.
B. Any lot adjacent to a railroad right-of-way, in any way must way, shall be required to have a 50-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirement stated herein. Commercial Setbacks C-2B Community Business District Interior Maximum Minimum Front Corner Rear Floor Major Minimum Side Height of Lot Yard Yard Yard Area Category Lot Area Yard Principal Width Setback Setback Setback Ratio Setback Use Retail Business N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Uses Service Uses N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Office Uses N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Health Medical 20,000 and Care 150′ 50′ 15′ 30′ 40′ 0.25 45′ sq.ft. Facilities Agricultural 5 acres 300′ 50′ 15′ 30′ 40′ 0.15 35v Uses Public, Education, and N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 35′ Utility Uses Recreation and Social N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 35′ Facilities Uses Senior Housing 1,090 150′ 30′ 10′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′
C. Day care facilities must provide a minimum Commercial Setbacks C-2B Community Business District Interior Maximum Minimum Front Corner Rear Floor Major Minimum Side Height of 150-square feet of outdoor play area for each child cared for. Lot Yard Yard Yard Area Category Lot Area Yard Principal Width Setback Setback Setback Ratio Setback Use sq.ft. Miscellaneous N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.4 35′ Uses
REGULATIONS 7. Sign Regulations. Signs are permitted according to the provisions of Section 6. Chapter
REGULATIONS 8. Parking Regulations.
A. Parking areas shall consist of areas that are aesthetically pleasing, landscaped to screen public views, and located so as not to be the dominant feature along any street or within any development. The use of alternate materials to designate pedestrian areas within or adjacent to parking lots is encouraged, and pedestrian areas shall be separated from vehicular traffic with landscaping, decorative posts, special paving, or other measures to clearly define the pedestrian spaces. Property owners are encouraged to establish shared parking zones among uses on one or more lots.
B.
Parking must be provided according to the provisions of Section 7. 165.06.
REGULATIONS 9. Lighting Regulations. Exterior lighting must be as provided according to the provisions of Section 8. 165.07.
REGULATIONS At the time of application 10. Site Plan Regulations.
A. Prior to applying
for a building permit, Building Permit, all applicants must supply commercial zones shall submit a landscaping site plan for review by City designee and City Engineer. It is the Planning intent of this section that site plans for C-2 District are prepared by a designer having professional competence in urban planning. The Council shall require the applicant to engage a qualified designer. The site plan shall follow appropriate design standards.
B. The site plan shall follow all the requirements listed below.
(1) Date, compass point, legend of symbols,
and Zoning Commission minimum scale 1” = 40′.
(2) Legal description including total area of property
(3) Address, if assigned
(4) Land owner’s and applicant’s name, address, and contact information
(5) Vicinity map that identifies the location of the property in relationship to the neighborhood
or the city designee. rest of the City.
(6) Property boundary lines including bearing, and distances with dimensions to the nearest one-tenth of one foot.
(7) Existing and proposed topography at contour intervals of not more than one foot, extending beyond the boundaries of the site to adjacent properties as necessary to address drainage issues.
(8) Location of any established floodways, floodway fringe, and floodplain overlay lines, if applicable.
(9) Location of existing trees; identify those that will be preserved.
(10) Location of existing and proposed utilities, public and private
(11) Location of existing and proposed easements, public and private
(12) Location, footprint, size, and use of all buildings and structures existing and proposed with setback lines.
(13) Location of proposed public and private sidewalks
(14) Location of parking and greenspaces
(15) Colored elevations for all sides of the building and structures including trash enclosures, illustrating architecture, materials, and color palette. The elevation drawings shall be sized appropriately showing architectural detail and shall include labels identifying all exterior materials. In addition, include percentage of masonry for each building and structure.
(16) Minimum low opening elevations, if applicable.
11. Landscaping Regulations. At the same time a site plan is submitted a landscaping plan shall be submitted for review by the Zoning Administrator.
The landscaping plan must shall follow landscaping regulations as shown in Chapter 168, and shall be appropriate approved prior to Building Permit approval. Site plans in the zone and must be submitted at the time of application for a building permit. The plan is subject to review and approval of the city.
Commercial zones must
C-2 District shall provide in their landscaping plans for the placement plan of no less than one four deciduous tree trees for each acre or less of zoned area. Each parking space should be no more than 40 feet from a deciduous tree. The city City review may also request require additional landscaping such as shrubs and border vegetation if this it should appear to be beneficial and conducive to a more esthetic, attractive attractive, and orderly development of the area.
REGULATIONS 12. Screening and Buffering Regulations. Commercial zones shall supply a screening and buffering plan for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, or other City designee, prior to application of a Building Permit. At a minimum the proposed plan shall show screening in compliance with the following:
A. Waste collection stations shall meet the Variable Height Screening (S2) requirements of Section 169.06(2).
B. Utility and mechanical equipment shall meet the High Screening (S3) requirements of Section 169.06(3).
13. Special Regulations.

A. Residential uses are not permitted.
B. All business establishments must shall be retail or service in use dealing directly with consumers. All goods produced on the premises must shall be sold at retail on the premises where produced.
C. All business, service, storage, and display of goods must shall be conducted within a completely enclosed structure, except for:
1. (1) Agricultural uses
2. (2) Parking and loading areas, as regulated by Section 7. 165.06.
3. (3) Automobile service stations
4. (4) Outdoor sale of building and garden supply materials and goods
5. (5) Sales or display of merchandise sold or offered for sale through vending machines, provided such machines do not occupy a ground area of more than sixteen (16) 16 square feet
6. (6) Temporary outdoor or sidewalk sales
7. (7) Outdoor tables or seating areas accessory to restaurants
D. Except for automobile laundries, automobile service stations, drive-in restaurants, drive-in banks and savings and loan associations facilities, when When authorized as a special uses, use, no business establishment may offer goods or service directly to customers waiting in parked motor vehicles, or sell beverages or food for consumption on the premises in parked motor vehicles. vehicles, except for the following:
STANDARDS All business establishments (1) Automobile laundries.
(2) Automobile service stations.
(3) Drive-in restaurants.
(4) Drive-in banks
and activities must conform savings and loan associations.
14. Performance Standards.
A. Performance standards regulating commercial development and activity within the City are intended to:
(1) Permit commercial land uses
to be measured factually and objectively.
(2) Ensure that industries and businesses provide methods that protect the community from hazards that are preventable by legitimate processes of control and nuisance eliminations
(3) Protect industries from arbitrary exclusion or persecution based solely on subjective determinations of commercial performances made in the past.
B. Applicable. Performance standard provisions in the C-2 District shall be applicable to any use established in the following instances:
(1) If any use, building or other structure, established prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code is extended, enlarged, moved, structurally altered, or reconstructed, the change in building or land use or configuration shall be in full compliance with this provision. Uses lawfully established prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code, and not being extended, enlarged, moved, structurally altered, or reconstructed, shall fully comply with applicable commercial performance standards existing at the time of use establishment or at the time of most recent structural alteration.
(2) Any use established, building or structure constructed, or tract of land developed for any permitted, special, or accessory use in this zoning district shall comply with all of
the performance standards established for the M1-M2 District, provided that herein set forth.
C. Procedure. Uses, buildings, or structures required to comply with this provision must make a showing of probable compliance with these
performance standards prior to undertaking any alteration. The showing shall be in the form of a letter submitted with the zoning application (or building application if proper commercial zoning already exists) prepared by a professional engineer, licensed in the State, certifying that the use, building, or structure complies with all commercial performance standard requirements. The letter shall be based on the engineer’s personal scrutiny of the site and proposed use or alteration and shall have analytical foundation in accepted engineering principles. In addition, the Planning and Zoning Commission may require the applicant to submit:
(1) A plot plan showing the location of all present and proposed structures, drives, parking lots, waste disposal areas, bulk storage areas, streets, streams, or other significant features on or within 200 feet of the proposed site.
(2) A description of the activity to be conducted regarding waste products, external effects, or other conditions that are regulated herein; provided, however, that the applicant shall not be required to reveal any trade secrets or sufficient detail with regard to a process that would cause any secret process or manufacturing procedure for a closely guarded proprietary compound or product to become public knowledge and be available to competitors.
(3) The type and location of abatement devices to control, or recording instruments to measure conformance with required standards, not including devices and instruments that are inherent in the manufacturing process.
(4) Such other data and certification as may reasonably be required by the Planning and Zoning Commission to reach a determination.
(5) All information and evidence submitted in applications to indicate conformity to performance standards shall constitute a certification and an agreement on the part of the applicant that the proposed use can and will conform to such standards at all times.
D. Administrative Options. The Planning and Zoning Commission may approve and authorize the establishment of the use, building, or structure if all pertinent provisions of this Zoning Code and other applicable ordinances are complied with. If, however, the Planning and Zoning Commission determines that the proposed use, building, or structure does not comply with performance standards, they shall inform the applicant that either more information is necessary or that an independent engineering analysis of the proposed use, building, or structure is required prior to final Council approval.
E. Need for Independent Engineering Analysis. If the Planning and Zoning Commission determines that reason exists to doubt the compliance with any applicable performance standard provision, a State licensed professional engineer of the City’s choosing (but acceptable to the petitioner)
may be asked to analyze the prospects of compliance. Costs of such analysis
must be paid by the applicant.
F. Use of Independent Engineering Analysis. Upon submission of an independent engineering analysis authorized by the City, the Planning and Zoning Commission shall authorize establishment of the use, building, or structure if the independent analysis confirms probable compliance with this provision and if all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Code and other City ordinances are satisfied. If, however, the independent engineering analysis indicates that the proposed use, building, or structure is not likely to comply with this provision, then the application must be denied until such time that the proposal is able to comply fully.
G. Failure to Act. The failure of the Planning and Zoning Commission to act on an application within 120 days following formal filing of the application may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment.
H. Appeal of Decision. Following the determination of the Council, based on recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, the applicant or any person aggrieved shall have the option of filing an appeal to the Board of Adjustment. An appeal shall be filed within 10 days of the Council’s decision.
I. Continued Enforcement. The Planning and Zoning Commission or Zoning Administrator shall investigate any purported violation of performance standards. Uses, buildings, or structures lawfully established prior to the effective date of the ordinance adopting these performance standards† and subject to performance standards existing at that time, may be found to be
in violation with those previously applicable standards. Alleged violations may be brought to the Council’s attention by City staff, a peace officer, health, or environmental employee, or officials or citizens. If a violation is alleged, the Zoning Administrator must inform the suspected perpetrator and must initiate an independent engineering analysis consistent with the analysis procedure outlined in Paragraph F. Administrative determinations made in conjunction with the analysis may be appealed according to Paragraph H.
J. Revocation of Permits. If an alleged violation is determined to be valid by the independent engineering analysis, any permits previously issued in conjunction with the established use, building, or structure are void and the operator must cease operation until the violation is remedied. Failure to cease operation within two days of notice constitutes a violation of this Zoning Code and the penalty provision cited in Section 165.32 may be imposed.
K. Technical Provisions.
(1) Noise
a. To measure the intensity and frequency of sound, the sound level meter, the octave band analyzer, and the impact noise analyzer may be employed. The flat network and the fast meter response of the sound level meter may be used.
Sounds of short duration that cannot be measured accurately with the sound level meter may be measured with the impact noise analyzer. Octave band analyzers calibrated in the preferred frequencies (American Standards Association S1 6-1960, Preferred Frequencies for Acoustical Measurements) shall be used with the following tables. The suspected perpetrator will be required to hire, at the approval of the City, a consultant to measure, record, and report to the Council results about compliance with this Code. All costs shall be the responsibility of the property owner.
b. Maximum Permitted Sound Level. Octave Bank Frequency Cycles per Second Decibels 0-74 58 75-149 54 150-299 50 300-599 46 600-1,199 40 1,200-2,399 33 2,400-4,799 26 4,800-over 20
c. Exceptions. The following uses and activities shall be exempt from the noise level regulations in the C-2 District:
i. Noises not directly under control of the property user.
ii. Noises emanating from construction and maintenance activities between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Such activities are those that are non-routine operations accessory to the primary activities, and that are temporary in nature, or conducted infrequently.
iii. The noises of safety signals, warning devices, and emergency pressure relief valves.
iv. Transient noises of moving sources such as automobiles, trucks, airplanes, and railroads.
(2) Vibration.
a. Any commercial operation or activity that must cause at any time and at any point along the nearest adjacent lot line, earth borne vibrations in excess of the limits set forth in steady-state displacement as indicated in Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(d) and Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(e) is prohibited.
b. Any commercial operation or activity that must cause at any time and at any point along a residential district boundary line, earth borne vibrations in excess of the limits set forth in Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(d) and Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(e) is prohibited.
c. Exceptions. The following uses and activities shall be exempt from the vibration level regulations:
i. Vibrations not directly under control of the property user.
ii. Vibrations emanating from construction and maintenance activities between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Such activities are those that are non-routine operations accessory to the primary activities, and that are temporary in nature, or conducted infrequently.
iii. Transient vibrations of moving sources such as automobiles, trucks, airplanes, and railroads.
iv. Vibrations must be expressed as displacement in inches and must be measured with a three-component measuring system approved by the Zoning Administrator.
d. Maximum Permitted Steady-State Vibration Displacement Level. Steady-State Vibration Steady-State Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 0-9 0.0008 0.0004 10-19 0.0005 0.0002 20-29 0.0003 0.0001 30-39 0.0002 0.0001 40-over 0.0001 0.0001 A Steady-State vibrations, for purposes of this Code, are vibrations that are continuous, or vibrations in discrete impulses more frequent than 100 per minute. Discrete impulses that do not exceed 100 per minute, shall be considered impact vibrations, and shall not cause in excess of twice the displacement stipulated.
e. Maximum Permitted Impact Vibration Displacement Level. Impact Vibration Impact Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Maximum Adjacent (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 0-9 0.0016 0.0006 10-19 0.0010 0.0003 20-29 0.0006 0.0002
Impact Vibration Impact Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Maximum Adjacent (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 30-39 0.0004 0.0001 40-over 0.0002 0.0001 A Impact vibrations, for purposes of this Code, are vibrations that occur in discrete impulses separated by the interval of at least one minute and numbering not more than eight in any 24-period.
(3) Smoke and Particulate Matter. The emission, from all sources within any lot, or particulate matter containing more than five percent by weight of particles having a particle diameter larger than 44 microns is prohibited. Dust and other types of air pollution borne by the wind from such sources as storage areas, yards, and roads within the boundaries of any lot shall be kept to a minimum by appropriate landscaping, paving, oiling, or other acceptable means. Emission of particulate matter from such sources in excess of the weight limitations specified herein is prohibited. The emission of smoke or particulate matter of a density or equivalent opacity equal to, or greater than, Ringelmann Chart No. 2 is prohibited at all times, except as otherwise provided herein. (The Ringelmann Chart is the chart published by the United States Bureau of Mines.)
a. Smoke Emission. In the C-2 District, the emission of more than 12 smoke units per stack in any one-hour period is prohibited. However, once during any six-hour period each stack must be permitted up to 12 additional units in a 15-minute period for soot blowing and fire cleaning. Only during such 15-minute periods shall smoke of a density or equivalent opacity equal to, but not exceeding, Ringelmann Chart No. 3 be permitted, and then only for fire cleaning and for not more than four minutes per period.
b. Particulate Matter. The rate of emission of particulate matter from all sources within the boundaries of any lot must not exceed the rate established in the following table: Maximum Permitted Particulate Matter Emission Rate Pounds per Acre Height of Emissions (ft) (Per Acre) 0-49 1.00 50-99 1.01 100-149 1.06 150-199 1.10 200-299 1.16 300-399 1.30 400-over 1.50
c. Method of Measurement
i. Smoke. To grade the density or equivalent opacity of emission of smoke, the Ringelmann Chart must be employed. To determine smoke units, the Ringelmann reading shall be made at least
every case minute during the period of observation. Each reading (Ringelmann number) shall be applied at multiplied by the time in minutes for which it is observed, and the products added together to determine the total number of smoke units observed during the total period of observation.
ii. Particulate Matter. The total net rate of emission of particulate matter within the boundaries of any lot shall be determined as follows: Determine the maximum emission in pounds per hour from each source of emission and divide this figure by the number of acres of lot area, thereby obtaining the hourly rate of emission in pounds per acre. Add together the individual rate of emission as derived above to obtain the total rate of emission from all sources of emission within
the boundaries of the zoning lot. This total shall not exceed the rate established in the table in Section 166.17(14)(K)(3)(b).
(4) Odors. No continuous, frequent, or repetitive emission of odors or odor-causing substances that would be offensive beyond any property line of any commercial use will be permitted. An odor emitted no more than 15 minutes in any one day shall not be deemed as continuous, frequent, or repetitive within the meaning of these regulations. The existence of an odor shall be presumed when analysis by a competent technician demonstrates that a discernible odor is being emitted. Any process that may involve the creation or emission of any odors shall be provided with a primary and a secondary safeguard system so that control will be maintained if the primary safeguard system fails. The rules and regulations of the Iowa Environmental Protection Agency shall be complied with.
(5) Radiation Hazards. The handling of radioactive materials, the discharge of such materials into air and water, and the disposal of radioactive wastes shall not be allowed in the C-2 District.
(6) Fire and Explosive Hazards
a. The provisions of Sections 93.143-156 of the Code of Iowa shall be complied with, and no explosives shall be stored, user, or manufactured without first petitioning the City, and the use must receive a certificate of compliance from both the State and the Tiffin Fire Association.
b. No gasoline or other inflammables or explosives shall be stored unless the location, plans, and construction conform to the laws and regulations of the State and have the approval of both the Department of Public Safety and the Tiffin Fire Association.
(7) Glare and Heat. Every use and activity shall be so operated that it does not emit heat or heated air beyond the boundary of the
lot in on which it is located. No direct or sky-reflected glare shall emanate from any use or activity that is visible at any point on or beyond the boundary of the lot on which such activity is located. This restriction does not apply to signs otherwise permitted by the provisions of the Zoning Code or other applicable ordinances, to activities take place. of a temporary or of an emergency nature, or to night lighting necessary for safety and the protection of property.
C-1O COMMERCIAL DISTRICT RESTRICTED OFFICE (8) Electromagnetic Interference. There shall be no electromagnetic interference that adversely affects the operation of any equipment other than that belonging to the creator of such interference, or that does not conform to the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission.
15. Design Standards. All business establishment and activities shall conform to the design standards established for C-2 District.
A. Buildings shall have color schemes that are based on earth tones or other compatible colors unless special permission is granted by the Zoning Administrator.
B. Building design shall be visually harmonious and compatible with the neighborhood character.
C. Buildings located on property with multiple frontages shall have similar design facing all streets.
D. Buildings shall have consistent architectural style throughout the development on each lot.
E. External mechanical equipment shall be incorporated into the design such that it does not detract from the aesthetics of the site and buildings.
F. All roof top equipment shall be screened pursuant to Chapter 169.
G. Reflective surfaces that may cause glare or traffic hazards are not acceptable.

Word-level comparison of the current texts with the draft's; spacing and paragraph breaks come from the documents' text. Footnotes are left out.

Current code

Zoning § C-2B.01 Intent

AND DESCRIPTION OF DISTRICT To encourage the development of commingled retail, service, and office uses within the community. The C-2B District is an intensive commercial classification in which the commingling or many retail, service, and office uses are permitted. Structures located in this district may vary from freestanding building to larger community shopping centers. Shopping centers that minimize curb cuts and signage, while maximizing aesthetics, are the preferred type of development in this zone. As this classification presents compatibility problems with less intensive classification, great care must be taken in mapping the C-2B zone. Normally, this district is located only at the convergence of major arterial thoroughfares.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.02 Principal

USES AND STRUCTURES PERMITTED Permitted uses of land or buildings, as hereinafter enumerated, may be permitted in the C-2B District only in accordance with conditions specified. Only those uses specifically listed hereunder may be considered permitted uses, and no building or lot may be devoted to any use other than a use permitted hereunder, with the exception of:

Principal Uses and Structures Permitted as listed in the following Table C.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.03 Accessory

AND TEMPORARY USES & STRUCTURES Accessory and temporary uses or structures according to the provisions of Section 9.05 and Section 9.21.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.04 Special

EXCEPTION USES Special exceptions, as hereinafter listed in the following Table C, may be allowed subject to the issuance of special use permits in accordance with the provisions of Section 11.07.

Special exceptions may be required to meet more restrictive site and structure provisions if the City Council, acting upon the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, determines that such requirements are necessary to the public, health, safety and general welfare.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.05 Area

REQUIREMENTS The minimum area that may constitute a separate or detached part of the C-2B zoning district on the City of Tiffin Official Zoning Map, or subsequent amendments to the Map, must be two (2) acres. However, land zoned in the C-1B, C-1O, and/or C-1S zoning districts that immediately abuts or is directly across the street from land zoned in the C-2B classification, may be included in the calculations in meeting the minimum requirements.

The minimum area, setback, density and maximum height, may be as prescribed in the following Table C; provided however, the following requirements must be applied when applicable:

A. Any lot adjacent to U.S. Highway 6, in any way, must be required to have a 20-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirements stated herein, except those properties that are located adjacent to Highway 6 beginning at the east line of Main Street to a point 233 feet, more or less, west of the intersection with Roberts Ferry Road and Highway Six, which must be required to have a 32-foot setback, in addition to the minimum yard requirements state herein.

B. Any lot adjacent to a railroad right-of-way, in any way must be required to have a 50-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirement stated herein.

C. Day care facilities must provide a minimum of 150-square feet of outdoor play area for each child cared for.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.06 Sign

REGULATIONS Signs are permitted according to the provisions of Section 6.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.07 Parking

REGULATIONS Parking must be provided according to the provisions of Section 7.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.08 Lighting

REGULATIONS Exterior lighting must be as provided according to the provisions of Section 8.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.09 Landscaping

REGULATIONS At the time of application for a building permit, all applicants must supply a landscaping plan for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission or the city designee. The landscaping plan must be appropriate to the zone and must be submitted at the time of application for a building permit. The plan is subject to review and approval of the city.

Commercial zones must provide in their landscaping plans for the placement of no less than one deciduous tree for each acre or less of zoned area. The city review may also request additional landscaping such as shrubs and border vegetation if this should appear to be beneficial and conducive to a more esthetic, attractive and orderly development of the area.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.10 Special

REGULATIONS

A. Residential uses are not permitted.

B. All business establishments must be retail or service in use dealing directly with consumers. All goods produced on the premises must be sold at retail on the premises where produced.

C. All business, service, storage, and display of goods must be conducted within a completely enclosed structure, except for:

1. Agricultural uses

2. Parking and loading areas, as regulated by Section 7.

3. Automobile service stations

4. Outdoor sale of building and garden supply materials and goods

5. Sales or display of merchandise sold or offered for sale through vending machines, provided such machines do not occupy a ground area of more than sixteen (16) square feet

6. Temporary outdoor or sidewalk sales

7. Outdoor tables or seating areas accessory to restaurants

D. Except for automobile laundries, automobile service stations, drive-in restaurants, drive-in banks and savings and loan associations facilities, when authorized as special uses, no business establishment may offer goods or service directly to customers waiting in parked motor vehicles, or sell beverages or food for consumption on the premises in parked motor vehicles.

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

Zoning § C-2B.11 Performance

STANDARDS All business establishments and activities must conform to the performance standards established for the M1-M2 District, provided that performance standards must in every case be applied at the boundaries of the zoning lot in which such activities take place.

C-1O COMMERCIAL DISTRICT RESTRICTED OFFICE

Zoning Ordinance (2007) · source page

2026 draft

§ 166.17 General Commercial District (C-2b)

1. Description of District. The General Commercial District is a high intensity commercial district intended to provide the total service needs of the motoring public using the major highway/Interstate system through and adjacent to the City and to require adequate space provisions to accommodate needs of the motorist. It is further intended to provide areas in close proximity to the major Interstate network and discourage through traffic on minor and local residential streets within the City. This district should be well buffered from low and medium density housing by C-1A C-1B, R-8, R-12.

2. Principal Uses and Structures Permitted. Principal uses and structure permitted shall be identified in Section 166.20.

3. Accessory and Temporary Buildings and Structures.

A. Accessory and temporary uses or structures according to the provisions of Section 165.11 and Section 165.25.

B. A retailer or community group as defined in Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, who possesses and complies with all requirements of a consumer fireworks seller license issued by the State Fire Marshal, may sell consumer fireworks from a temporary structure in this zoning district, but only during the dates and times as allowed under Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa, and provided there is also compliance with the following:

(1) For purposes of Paragraph B, “temporary structure” means a tent, canopy, stand, or similar enclosure that is not permanently affixed to the land, which is not intended for permanent use, and is erected for the sole purpose of retail sales of consumer fireworks.

(2) The temporary structure and site plan for the temporary structure and its use must be approved by the Building Official.

(3) Proof of a valid and current license, and any additional requirements which are a part thereof, issued by the State Fire Marshal, shall be furnished to the Building Official, with a copy of any application for the license, and any attachments, provided to the State Fire Marshal.

(4) Proof of maintenance of commercial general liability insurance required by Chapter 100 of the Code of Iowa shall be furnished to the Building Official.

(5) If the retailer or community group does not own the land where the temporary structure is proposed to be located they shall provide proof of consent from all current property owners.

(6) The use of the temporary structure may not adversely impact the surrounding area and land uses, which must still comply with all City Code requirements.

(7) The temporary structure and its use must comply with all State, federal, and local laws, and regulations.

(8) The temporary structure must be removed by July 15 of each year.

4. Restricted Permitted Uses. Restricted uses, as hereinafter listed in Section 166.20, may be allowed subject to the issuance of a restricted use permit by the Zoning Administrator, as required by Section 165.30. Restricted uses may be required to meet more restrictive site and structural provisions if it is determined such requirements are necessary.

5. Special Exception Uses. Special exceptions, as hereinafter listed in Section 166.20, may be allowed subject to the issuance of special use permits in accordance with the provisions of Section 165.27(7). Special exceptions may be required to meet more restrictive site and structure provisions if the Council, acting upon the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, determines that such requirements are necessary for the public health safety, and general welfare

6. Area Requirements. The minimum area that may constitute a separate or detached part of the C-2 District on the Official Zoning Map, or subsequent amendments to the map, must be two acres. However, land zoned in the C-1A, C-1B, C-3, or C-1S Districts that immediately abuts or is directly across the street from land zoned in the C-2, may be included in the calculations in meeting the minimum requirements. The minimum area, setback, density, and maximum height, may be as prescribed in Section 166.20; provided however, the following requirements shall be applied when applicable:

A. Any lot adjacent to U.S. Highway 6, in any way, shall be required to have a 20-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirements stated herein, except those properties that are located adjacent to U.S. Highway 6 beginning at the east line of Main Street to a point 233 feet, more or less, west of the intersection with Roberts Ferry Road and U.S. Highway 6, which shall be required to have a 32-foot setback, in addition to the minimum yard requirements stated herein.

B. Any lot adjacent to a railroad right-of-way, in any way, shall be required to have a 50-foot setback in addition to the minimum yard requirement stated herein. Commercial Setbacks C-2B Community Business District Interior Maximum Minimum Front Corner Rear Floor Major Minimum Side Height of Lot Yard Yard Yard Area Category Lot Area Yard Principal Width Setback Setback Setback Ratio Setback Use Retail Business N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Uses Service Uses N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Office Uses N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′ Health Medical 20,000 and Care 150′ 50′ 15′ 30′ 40′ 0.25 45′ sq.ft. Facilities Agricultural 5 acres 300′ 50′ 15′ 30′ 40′ 0.15 35v Uses Public, Education, and N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 35′ Utility Uses Recreation and Social N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 35′ Facilities Uses Senior Housing 1,090 150′ 30′ 10′ 30′ 30′ 0.8 45′

Commercial Setbacks C-2B Community Business District Interior Maximum Minimum Front Corner Rear Floor Major Minimum Side Height of Lot Yard Yard Yard Area Category Lot Area Yard Principal Width Setback Setback Setback Ratio Setback Use sq.ft. Miscellaneous N/A N/A 30′ 15′ 30′ 30′ 0.4 35′ Uses

7. Sign Regulations. Signs are permitted according to the provisions of Chapter

8. Parking Regulations.

A. Parking areas shall consist of areas that are aesthetically pleasing, landscaped to screen public views, and located so as not to be the dominant feature along any street or within any development. The use of alternate materials to designate pedestrian areas within or adjacent to parking lots is encouraged, and pedestrian areas shall be separated from vehicular traffic with landscaping, decorative posts, special paving, or other measures to clearly define the pedestrian spaces. Property owners are encouraged to establish shared parking zones among uses on one or more lots.

B. Parking must be provided according to the provisions of Section 165.06.

9. Lighting Regulations. Exterior lighting must be as provided according to the provisions of Section 165.07.

10. Site Plan Regulations.

A. Prior to applying for a Building Permit, all commercial zones shall submit a site plan for review by City designee and City Engineer. It is the intent of this section that site plans for C-2 District are prepared by a designer having professional competence in urban planning. The Council shall require the applicant to engage a qualified designer. The site plan shall follow appropriate design standards.

B. The site plan shall follow all the requirements listed below.

(1) Date, compass point, legend of symbols, and minimum scale 1” = 40′.

(2) Legal description including total area of property

(3) Address, if assigned

(4) Land owner’s and applicant’s name, address, and contact information

(5) Vicinity map that identifies the location of the property in relationship to the neighborhood or the rest of the City.

(6) Property boundary lines including bearing, and distances with dimensions to the nearest one-tenth of one foot.

(7) Existing and proposed topography at contour intervals of not more than one foot, extending beyond the boundaries of the site to adjacent properties as necessary to address drainage issues.

(8) Location of any established floodways, floodway fringe, and floodplain overlay lines, if applicable.

(9) Location of existing trees; identify those that will be preserved.

(10) Location of existing and proposed utilities, public and private

(11) Location of existing and proposed easements, public and private

(12) Location, footprint, size, and use of all buildings and structures existing and proposed with setback lines.

(13) Location of proposed public and private sidewalks

(14) Location of parking and greenspaces

(15) Colored elevations for all sides of the building and structures including trash enclosures, illustrating architecture, materials, and color palette. The elevation drawings shall be sized appropriately showing architectural detail and shall include labels identifying all exterior materials. In addition, include percentage of masonry for each building and structure.

(16) Minimum low opening elevations, if applicable.

11. Landscaping Regulations. At the same time a site plan is submitted a landscaping plan shall be submitted for review by the Zoning Administrator. The landscaping plan shall follow landscaping regulations as shown in Chapter 168, and shall be approved prior to Building Permit approval. Site plans in the C-2 District shall provide in their landscaping plan of no less than four deciduous trees for each acre or less of zoned area. Each parking space should be no more than 40 feet from a deciduous tree. The City review may also require additional landscaping such as shrubs and border vegetation if it should appear to be beneficial and conducive to a more esthetic, attractive, and orderly development of the area.

12. Screening and Buffering Regulations. Commercial zones shall supply a screening and buffering plan for review by the Planning and Zoning Commission, or other City designee, prior to application of a Building Permit. At a minimum the proposed plan shall show screening in compliance with the following:

A. Waste collection stations shall meet the Variable Height Screening (S2) requirements of Section 169.06(2).

B. Utility and mechanical equipment shall meet the High Screening (S3) requirements of Section 169.06(3).

13. Special Regulations.

A. Residential uses are not permitted.

B. All business establishments shall be retail or service in use dealing directly with consumers. All goods produced on the premises shall be sold at retail on the premises where produced.

C. All business, service, storage, and display of goods shall be conducted within a completely enclosed structure, except for:

(1) Agricultural uses

(2) Parking and loading areas, as regulated by Section 165.06.

(3) Automobile service stations

(4) Outdoor sale of building and garden supply materials and goods

(5) Sales or display of merchandise sold or offered for sale through vending machines, provided such machines do not occupy a ground area of more than 16 square feet

(6) Temporary outdoor or sidewalk sales

(7) Outdoor tables or seating areas accessory to restaurants

D. When authorized as a special use, no business establishment may offer goods or service directly to customers waiting in parked motor vehicles, or sell beverages or food for consumption on the premises in parked motor vehicles, except for the following:

(1) Automobile laundries.

(2) Automobile service stations.

(3) Drive-in restaurants.

(4) Drive-in banks and savings and loan associations.

14. Performance Standards.

A. Performance standards regulating commercial development and activity within the City are intended to:

(1) Permit commercial land uses to be measured factually and objectively.

(2) Ensure that industries and businesses provide methods that protect the community from hazards that are preventable by legitimate processes of control and nuisance eliminations

(3) Protect industries from arbitrary exclusion or persecution based solely on subjective determinations of commercial performances made in the past.

B. Applicable. Performance standard provisions in the C-2 District shall be applicable to any use established in the following instances:

(1) If any use, building or other structure, established prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code is extended, enlarged, moved, structurally altered, or reconstructed, the change in building or land use or configuration shall be in full compliance with this provision. Uses lawfully established prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code, and not being extended, enlarged, moved, structurally altered, or reconstructed, shall fully comply with applicable commercial performance standards existing at the time of use establishment or at the time of most recent structural alteration.

(2) Any use established, building or structure constructed, or tract of land developed for any permitted, special, or accessory use in this zoning district shall comply with all of the performance standards herein set forth.

C. Procedure. Uses, buildings, or structures required to comply with this provision must make a showing of probable compliance with these performance standards prior to undertaking any alteration. The showing shall be in the form of a letter submitted with the zoning application (or building application if proper commercial zoning already exists) prepared by a professional engineer, licensed in the State, certifying that the use, building, or structure complies with all commercial performance standard requirements. The letter shall be based on the engineer’s personal scrutiny of the site and proposed use or alteration and shall have analytical foundation in accepted engineering principles. In addition, the Planning and Zoning Commission may require the applicant to submit:

(1) A plot plan showing the location of all present and proposed structures, drives, parking lots, waste disposal areas, bulk storage areas, streets, streams, or other significant features on or within 200 feet of the proposed site.

(2) A description of the activity to be conducted regarding waste products, external effects, or other conditions that are regulated herein; provided, however, that the applicant shall not be required to reveal any trade secrets or sufficient detail with regard to a process that would cause any secret process or manufacturing procedure for a closely guarded proprietary compound or product to become public knowledge and be available to competitors.

(3) The type and location of abatement devices to control, or recording instruments to measure conformance with required standards, not including devices and instruments that are inherent in the manufacturing process.

(4) Such other data and certification as may reasonably be required by the Planning and Zoning Commission to reach a determination.

(5) All information and evidence submitted in applications to indicate conformity to performance standards shall constitute a certification and an agreement on the part of the applicant that the proposed use can and will conform to such standards at all times.

D. Administrative Options. The Planning and Zoning Commission may approve and authorize the establishment of the use, building, or structure if all pertinent provisions of this Zoning Code and other applicable ordinances are complied with. If, however, the Planning and Zoning Commission determines that the proposed use, building, or structure does not comply with performance standards, they shall inform the applicant that either more information is necessary or that an independent engineering analysis of the proposed use, building, or structure is required prior to final Council approval.

E. Need for Independent Engineering Analysis. If the Planning and Zoning Commission determines that reason exists to doubt the compliance with any applicable performance standard provision, a State licensed professional engineer of the City’s choosing (but acceptable to the petitioner)

may be asked to analyze the prospects of compliance. Costs of such analysis must be paid by the applicant.

F. Use of Independent Engineering Analysis. Upon submission of an independent engineering analysis authorized by the City, the Planning and Zoning Commission shall authorize establishment of the use, building, or structure if the independent analysis confirms probable compliance with this provision and if all other applicable provisions of this Zoning Code and other City ordinances are satisfied. If, however, the independent engineering analysis indicates that the proposed use, building, or structure is not likely to comply with this provision, then the application must be denied until such time that the proposal is able to comply fully.

G. Failure to Act. The failure of the Planning and Zoning Commission to act on an application within 120 days following formal filing of the application may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment.

H. Appeal of Decision. Following the determination of the Council, based on recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission, the applicant or any person aggrieved shall have the option of filing an appeal to the Board of Adjustment. An appeal shall be filed within 10 days of the Council’s decision.

I. Continued Enforcement. The Planning and Zoning Commission or Zoning Administrator shall investigate any purported violation of performance standards. Uses, buildings, or structures lawfully established prior to the effective date of the ordinance adopting these performance standards† and subject to performance standards existing at that time, may be found to be in violation with those previously applicable standards. Alleged violations may be brought to the Council’s attention by City staff, a peace officer, health, or environmental employee, or officials or citizens. If a violation is alleged, the Zoning Administrator must inform the suspected perpetrator and must initiate an independent engineering analysis consistent with the analysis procedure outlined in Paragraph F. Administrative determinations made in conjunction with the analysis may be appealed according to Paragraph H.

J. Revocation of Permits. If an alleged violation is determined to be valid by the independent engineering analysis, any permits previously issued in conjunction with the established use, building, or structure are void and the operator must cease operation until the violation is remedied. Failure to cease operation within two days of notice constitutes a violation of this Zoning Code and the penalty provision cited in Section 165.32 may be imposed.

K. Technical Provisions.

(1) Noise

a. To measure the intensity and frequency of sound, the sound level meter, the octave band analyzer, and the impact noise analyzer may be employed. The flat network and the fast meter response of the sound level meter may be used.

Sounds of short duration that cannot be measured accurately with the sound level meter may be measured with the impact noise analyzer. Octave band analyzers calibrated in the preferred frequencies (American Standards Association S1 6-1960, Preferred Frequencies for Acoustical Measurements) shall be used with the following tables. The suspected perpetrator will be required to hire, at the approval of the City, a consultant to measure, record, and report to the Council results about compliance with this Code. All costs shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

b. Maximum Permitted Sound Level. Octave Bank Frequency Cycles per Second Decibels 0-74 58 75-149 54 150-299 50 300-599 46 600-1,199 40 1,200-2,399 33 2,400-4,799 26 4,800-over 20

c. Exceptions. The following uses and activities shall be exempt from the noise level regulations in the C-2 District:

i. Noises not directly under control of the property user.

ii. Noises emanating from construction and maintenance activities between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Such activities are those that are non-routine operations accessory to the primary activities, and that are temporary in nature, or conducted infrequently.

iii. The noises of safety signals, warning devices, and emergency pressure relief valves.

iv. Transient noises of moving sources such as automobiles, trucks, airplanes, and railroads.

(2) Vibration.

a. Any commercial operation or activity that must cause at any time and at any point along the nearest adjacent lot line, earth borne vibrations in excess of the limits set forth in steady-state displacement as indicated in Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(d) and Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(e) is prohibited.

b. Any commercial operation or activity that must cause at any time and at any point along a residential district boundary line, earth borne vibrations in excess of the limits set forth in Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(d) and Section 166.17(14)(K)(2)(e) is prohibited.

c. Exceptions. The following uses and activities shall be exempt from the vibration level regulations:

i. Vibrations not directly under control of the property user.

ii. Vibrations emanating from construction and maintenance activities between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Such activities are those that are non-routine operations accessory to the primary activities, and that are temporary in nature, or conducted infrequently.

iii. Transient vibrations of moving sources such as automobiles, trucks, airplanes, and railroads.

iv. Vibrations must be expressed as displacement in inches and must be measured with a three-component measuring system approved by the Zoning Administrator.

d. Maximum Permitted Steady-State Vibration Displacement Level. Steady-State Vibration Steady-State Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 0-9 0.0008 0.0004 10-19 0.0005 0.0002 20-29 0.0003 0.0001 30-39 0.0002 0.0001 40-over 0.0001 0.0001 A Steady-State vibrations, for purposes of this Code, are vibrations that are continuous, or vibrations in discrete impulses more frequent than 100 per minute. Discrete impulses that do not exceed 100 per minute, shall be considered impact vibrations, and shall not cause in excess of twice the displacement stipulated.

e. Maximum Permitted Impact Vibration Displacement Level. Impact Vibration Impact Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Maximum Adjacent (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 0-9 0.0016 0.0006 10-19 0.0010 0.0003 20-29 0.0006 0.0002

Impact Vibration Impact Frequency DisplacementA (in.) DisplacementA (in.) (Maximum Adjacent (Cycles per second) (Maximum Adjacent Commercial and Residential Uses) Industrial Uses) 30-39 0.0004 0.0001 40-over 0.0002 0.0001 A Impact vibrations, for purposes of this Code, are vibrations that occur in discrete impulses separated by the interval of at least one minute and numbering not more than eight in any 24-period.

(3) Smoke and Particulate Matter. The emission, from all sources within any lot, or particulate matter containing more than five percent by weight of particles having a particle diameter larger than 44 microns is prohibited. Dust and other types of air pollution borne by the wind from such sources as storage areas, yards, and roads within the boundaries of any lot shall be kept to a minimum by appropriate landscaping, paving, oiling, or other acceptable means. Emission of particulate matter from such sources in excess of the weight limitations specified herein is prohibited. The emission of smoke or particulate matter of a density or equivalent opacity equal to, or greater than, Ringelmann Chart No. 2 is prohibited at all times, except as otherwise provided herein. (The Ringelmann Chart is the chart published by the United States Bureau of Mines.)

a. Smoke Emission. In the C-2 District, the emission of more than 12 smoke units per stack in any one-hour period is prohibited. However, once during any six-hour period each stack must be permitted up to 12 additional units in a 15-minute period for soot blowing and fire cleaning. Only during such 15-minute periods shall smoke of a density or equivalent opacity equal to, but not exceeding, Ringelmann Chart No. 3 be permitted, and then only for fire cleaning and for not more than four minutes per period.

b. Particulate Matter. The rate of emission of particulate matter from all sources within the boundaries of any lot must not exceed the rate established in the following table: Maximum Permitted Particulate Matter Emission Rate Pounds per Acre Height of Emissions (ft) (Per Acre) 0-49 1.00 50-99 1.01 100-149 1.06 150-199 1.10 200-299 1.16 300-399 1.30 400-over 1.50

c. Method of Measurement

i. Smoke. To grade the density or equivalent opacity of emission of smoke, the Ringelmann Chart must be employed. To determine smoke units, the Ringelmann reading shall be made at least every minute during the period of observation. Each reading (Ringelmann number) shall be multiplied by the time in minutes for which it is observed, and the products added together to determine the total number of smoke units observed during the total period of observation.

ii. Particulate Matter. The total net rate of emission of particulate matter within the boundaries of any lot shall be determined as follows: Determine the maximum emission in pounds per hour from each source of emission and divide this figure by the number of acres of lot area, thereby obtaining the hourly rate of emission in pounds per acre. Add together the individual rate of emission as derived above to obtain the total rate of emission from all sources of emission within the boundaries of the lot. This total shall not exceed the rate established in the table in Section 166.17(14)(K)(3)(b).

(4) Odors. No continuous, frequent, or repetitive emission of odors or odor-causing substances that would be offensive beyond any property line of any commercial use will be permitted. An odor emitted no more than 15 minutes in any one day shall not be deemed as continuous, frequent, or repetitive within the meaning of these regulations. The existence of an odor shall be presumed when analysis by a competent technician demonstrates that a discernible odor is being emitted. Any process that may involve the creation or emission of any odors shall be provided with a primary and a secondary safeguard system so that control will be maintained if the primary safeguard system fails. The rules and regulations of the Iowa Environmental Protection Agency shall be complied with.

(5) Radiation Hazards. The handling of radioactive materials, the discharge of such materials into air and water, and the disposal of radioactive wastes shall not be allowed in the C-2 District.

(6) Fire and Explosive Hazards

a. The provisions of Sections 93.143-156 of the Code of Iowa shall be complied with, and no explosives shall be stored, user, or manufactured without first petitioning the City, and the use must receive a certificate of compliance from both the State and the Tiffin Fire Association.

b. No gasoline or other inflammables or explosives shall be stored unless the location, plans, and construction conform to the laws and regulations of the State and have the approval of both the Department of Public Safety and the Tiffin Fire Association.

(7) Glare and Heat. Every use and activity shall be so operated that it does not emit heat or heated air beyond the boundary of the lot on which it is located. No direct or sky-reflected glare shall emanate from any use or activity that is visible at any point on or beyond the boundary of the lot on which such activity is located. This restriction does not apply to signs otherwise permitted by the provisions of the Zoning Code or other applicable ordinances, to activities of a temporary or of an emergency nature, or to night lighting necessary for safety and the protection of property.

(8) Electromagnetic Interference. There shall be no electromagnetic interference that adversely affects the operation of any equipment other than that belonging to the creator of such interference, or that does not conform to the regulations of the Federal Communications Commission.

15. Design Standards. All business establishment and activities shall conform to the design standards established for C-2 District.

A. Buildings shall have color schemes that are based on earth tones or other compatible colors unless special permission is granted by the Zoning Administrator.

B. Building design shall be visually harmonious and compatible with the neighborhood character.

C. Buildings located on property with multiple frontages shall have similar design facing all streets.

D. Buildings shall have consistent architectural style throughout the development on each lot.

E. External mechanical equipment shall be incorporated into the design such that it does not detract from the aesthetics of the site and buildings.

F. All roof top equipment shall be screened pursuant to Chapter 169.

G. Reflective surfaces that may cause glare or traffic hazards are not acceptable.

August 2026 draft · page 529

Back to draft chapter 166 · All changes

Data last updated October 22, 2026. Built from the archive's documents; see how the data is built.