Zoning Code Updates for 2023

By Rod Holloway, Mariemont Building Dept.

2022 was a busy year for updating or creating new ordinances. Below are some of the changes made to address either gaps or emerging needs to the ViIlage zoning code.

Solar Panels: We have seen an uptick in interest to install solar panels as energy prices rise and renewable energy becomes more popular. In updating this ordinance, we addressed the safety aspects of the technology and tried to minimize the aesthetic impact to the public. The new code has more rigorous requirements for filing a permit, updated location requirements, and includes design standards for safety assurance and provisions to address abandoned systems.

Synthetic Turf: Prior to creating this ordinance, a resident could have installed a non-natural color turf with various markings or logos in a front yard with little recourse from the Village. The newly created ordinance restricts the location to the rear yard, provides minimum design standards to manage aesthetics and environmental impacts, and addresses required cont'd on next page

Village Codes (from previous page) maintenance of the turf. The application process requires a landscape plan and material disclosure before permitting.

Paver Patios: Prior to this update, patios were required to adhere to the setback requirement, much like your primary residence, and thus very restrictive, especially with the smaller lot sizes in the Village. The new ordinance provides greater flexibility with location to property boundaries based on the elevation difference from grade of the patio surface. In addition, the updated ordinance clarifies patio features like pergolas, arbors, etc., and their setback requirements.

HVAC/Generators: Prior to this update, back-up generators were not considered a permitted obstruction, and every residence was limited to two outdoor condenser units, with restrictions on square footage and height. The changes now allow backup generators, increase the total number of outdoor obstructions to three, and increase the height and square footage of the equipment in the yard. The popularity of mini-splits (ductless) HVAC units and backup electrical generators required the Village to make these updates to allow residents to consider these technologies as options for their residence.

Hot Tubs: Hot tubs were not specifically mentioned in our code and could have been considered a swimming pool, thus challenged to meet the threshold of being at least 30 ft. from any property line zoning requirement. This change defines what is considered a hot tub and how and where they can be located in the yard. There are over 50 hot tubs scattered throughout the Village and those are grandfathered. Any new project will require a zoning permit to verify the proper location as well as the minimum design standard for installation.

If you are looking for the complete ordinances, you can find them in the

“Approved Ordinance Folder” for 2022 (in Public Records section of Mariemont.org) or contact the building department who can email the ordinance or discuss any project questions. These updates will be available via the online code tool later this calendar year.

The Building Department is open MonFri: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can also call us at 513-271-3315, Option 4.