10.1 SR 10-05-2020
Request for Action
To Item Number
Mayor and City Council 10.1
Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by
Work Session October 5, 2020 Zack Carlton, Planning Manager
Item Description Reviewed by
Firearm Sales as a Home Occupation Cal Portner, City Administrator
Reviewed by
Action Requested
Provide staff direction regarding a possible ordinance amendment.
Background/Discussion
On September 8, 2020, the City Council discussed allowed firearm sales as a conditional home occupation,
requiring a Conditional Use Permit and public hearing prior to approval. The police chief expressed concerns
regarding the request, potential public safety risks and his desire to maintain the existing ordinance.
The resident making the request stated he wants to operate the business out of his home until he can afford a
commercial space.
Council directed staff to review ordinances from nearby cities and research the history of the ordinance. Staff
spoke with planning staff from Rogers and Big Lake and reviewed ordinances from Otsego and Ramsey. Big Lake
and Otsego do not allow firearm sales as they prohibit the sale of merchandise made off-site. Ramsey may allow
with a Conditional Use Permit. Rogers is rewriting their ordinance and currently the use would not be permitted
as a home occupation.
The city reviewed a request for firearm sales in 1993, but ultimately denied the permit as it was to be run from a
duplex rather than a single-family home. That request triggered a review of the ordinance and resulted in an
amendment prohibiting future firearm sales as a home occupation. Please review the request and provide staff
with direction on a possible amendment.
Financial Impact
Publication costs associated with an amendment and the public hearing.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Council’s approved city mission statement.
Attachments
City Council packed dated September 8, 2020
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional
service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity.
Updated: August 2020