Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Highland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in zoning with medium priority
Building height measurement on sloped lots
Highland currently measures height from finished grade at the foundation, letting builders pile up dirt and build taller homes. The proposed fix measures from top back of curb or existing grade, closing a loophole neighbors have noticed.
Decks and covered patios in setbacks
Current rules force backyard decks and covered patios in open-space neighborhoods to meet full house setbacks, so many residents skip permits or build illegally. The proposed fix lets ground-level, two-thirds-open covered patios sit closer to the fence — but existing decks built out of code won't be grandfathered.
Density rounding rule for R-140 lots
A resident applicant asked the city to round lot counts up instead of down, which would give his cul-de-sac parcel six lots instead of five. Commissioners worried about eroding a rule they deliberately set in 2022 and about one-off code tweaks. It goes to the City Council anyway on April 20.
Daycares and home occupations in residential neighborhoods
Highland's rules for daycares, music lessons, swim lessons, and other home businesses were confusing and inconsistent between zones. The fix sets clear traffic and parking standards and allows these uses on lots of at least a sixth of an acre — a win for young families in newer neighborhoods like Ridgeview.