7.1 SR 06-16-2025The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
City Council
Item Number
7.1
Meeting Date
June 16, 2025
Prepared By
Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner
Item Description
Interim Use Permit: Residential Occupation, MJ and
Carl Johnson, 19289 Upland Street NW
Reviewed by
Zack Carlton
Cal Portner
Tina Allard
Action Requested
Approve the Interim Use Permit with the following conditions to satisfy the standards set forth in Section 30-
654:
1. No more than two non-resident employees may be present during business hours.
2. Hours of operation shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
3. The applicant must maintain current professional licensure and liability insurance.
4. The Interim Use Permit must be recorded after a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, and the
occupation shall not begin until the Interim Use Permit is recorded.
5. The Interim Use Permit will terminate when the property/home is sold.
Background/Discussion
The applicant is requesting an Interim Use Permit (IUP) to operate a residential-based aesthetic and wellness
business, Northern Rose MedSpa, from her home located at 19289 Upland St. NW. The business will involve
cosmetic and wellness services such as injectables, facials, and skincare consultations.
The property, approximately 5.5 acres in size, is zoned R3 (Townhouse/Multiple Family Residential) where
residential occupations are either permitted administratively or require an IUP. This request is subject to
being reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council because the business will involve the use of
equipment not typically found in a house.
Planning Commission
During the public hearing, one resident questioned if there would ever be a second residential occupation on
the property as the proposed plan shows a large, detached accessory structure. They were concerned it
might be for something like a landscaping business. Staff indicate any proposed residential occupation would
also require a public hearing and follow the same public hearing process. Additionally, a landscaping business
would likely require outdoor storage, which is prohibited in this zoning district.
Staff have not received any comments since the commission meeting.
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The Planning Commission had no questions or concerns about the request and unanimously recommended
approval.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Support the growth and development of the community.
Attachments
1. Planning Commission Memo dated 5-27-2025
2. IU 25-04 Recording Document
3. 7.1 Johnson IUP
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Planning Commission
Item Number
4.1
Meeting Date
May 27, 2025
Prepared By
Chris Leeseberg, Senior Planner
Item Description
Interim Use Permit: Residential Occupation, MJ and
Carl Johnson, 19289 Upland Street NW
Reviewed by
Zack Carlton
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, approval of the Interim Use Permit with the following conditions to satisfy the
standards set forth in Section 30-654:
1. No more than two non-resident employees may be present during business hours.
2. Hours of operation shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
3. The applicant must maintain current professional licensure and liability insurance.
4. The interim Use Permit will terminate when the home is sold.
Background/Discussion
The property, approximately 5.5 acres in size, is zoned R3 (Townhouse/Multiple Family Residential) where
residential occupations are either permitted administratively or require an Interim Use Permit (IUP). This
request is subject to a review by the Planning Commission and City Council because the business will involve
the use of equipment not typically found in a house. By contrast, a home-based business such as a tax office,
which uses standard office equipment, would be permitted without the need for an IUP.
The applicant is requesting an IUP to operate a residential-based aesthetic and wellness business, Northern
Rose MedSpa, from the planned home located at 19289 Upland St. NW. The business will involve cosmetic
and wellness services such as injectables, facials, and skincare consultations. The proposed use qualifies as a
Residential Occupation under Section 30-801 of the Zoning Ordinance and the IUP is required to allow the
use within the house.
The applicant anticipates approximately five (5) clients per day and will be seen one at a time. Client parking
will occur in the driveway and not on the street. Prior to the property being rezoned to Residential, it was
zoned Commercial, where significantly more traffic would have been generated. The ordinance limits the
hours of operation to 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday with no operations on Sunday.
The city recognizes that introducing residential occupations in residential districts could be noticeable and
strives to include approval conditions aimed at mitigating possible impacts.
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Interim Use - Applicable Regulations
Before the city council may authorize an interim use, it must make the following findings:
1. The period of time for which the interim use permit is to be granted will terminate before any adverse impacts
are felt upon adjacent properties.
The ordinance (Section 30-801) states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the
property is sold or when a lease has expired. The applicant acknowledges the temporary nature of the IUP.
Although termination does not guarantee adverse effects will not affect nearby properties, the recommended
conditions strive to prevent this outcome.
2. There is adequate assurance that the property will be left in suitable condition after the use is terminated.
The proposed residential occupation will occur inside the house. Upon termination, the space will revert to a
standard residential use with no remediation needed.
3. The use is similar to uses allowed in the zoning district in which the property is located.
Residential occupations are allowed with an IUP in the R3 zoning district and remain secondary to the
residential use of the property.
4. The date or event that will terminate the use can be identified with certainty.
The ordinance states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the property is sold
or when a lease has expired, so the termination of the use can be identified with certainty.
5. Authorizing the use will not impose additional costs on the public if it is necessary for the public to take the
property in the future.
No public infrastructure or improvements are needed. If the public were to take over the property, no
additional costs would be imposed on the public, as the proposed residential occupation will occur in the
house and the site will be left in a suitable condition.
6. The applicant and user agree to all conditions that the city council deems appropriate for authorization of the
interim use.
This will be determined at the City Council meeting.
7. The applicant provides assurances deemed adequate by the city council that the use will terminate as provided
in the interim use permit. The city council may require the applicant to deposit a cash amount with the city, or
provide some other form of security, to ensure compliance with this criteria.
Again, the ordinance states an approved IUP for a residential occupation shall terminate when the property is
sold or when a lease has expired. Based on the scale of the use, a cash deposit does not appear to be
necessary to comply with the criteria.
8. Authorization of the interim use will not result in adverse effects on public health, safety, or welfare.
The proposed use will occur entirely within the house and, due to its low-impact nature, poses no known
health or safety risks while preserving neighborhood harmony. Although the current exhibit depicting the
house’s proposed location is subject to change, the final siting and intended use are not anticipated to create
any health or safety concerns.
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9. The proposed interim use is consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan and conforms to the city's
zoning regulations.
The use is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan which guides the property as Mixed Residential. Single-
family uses, with residential occupations, are allowed in the zoning district.
Financial Impact
None
Mission/Policy/Goal
Ethical, efficient, and responsible.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Narrative
3. Site Plan - Draft Project Plan
4. Floor Plan
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IU 25-04 Narrative
Project Title: Residential MedSpa Clinic Addition
Project Overview:
This project involves incorporating a professional MedSpa clinic into the new home that is to be
under construction soon. The clinic will feature one treatment room and potentially a variety of
specialized equipment, creating a luxurious, therapeutic environment for aesthetic and wellness
services. Designed to harmonize with the home’s aesthetic, the MedSpa will offer both comfort and
clinical functionality.
Project Goals:
1. Functional Integration: Design a MedSpa that operates as a dedicated clinic while
blending with the residential architecture.
2. Ambiance and Comfort: Establish a sophisticated, serene atmosphere to enhance
client experience.
3. Compliance and Safety: Construct the clinic to meet medical standards for sanitation,
ventilation, and accessibility.
4. Efficiency and Flexibility: Design functional spaces to streamline workflow for staff,
with a layout flexible for future service additions.
Key Features and Spaces:
• Reception Area: A small, yet welcoming reception with comfortable seating and a
calm, modern aesthetic. (This feature has not yet been decided on.)
• One Treatment Room: Private, soundproofed treatment room equipped with
necessary equipment for a range of aesthetic services.
• Sterilization and Storage: Dedicated area for equipment sterilization and storage,
maintaining a clean and organized workspace.
• Client Amenities: High-end finishes, adjustable lighting, soundproofing, and climate
control for an enhanced client experience.
Common MedSpa Equipment:
• Adjustable Treatment Tables: Ergonomic, height-adjustable tables for client comfort
during treatments.
• Potential for FUTURE Laser Machines: For hair removal, skin resurfacing, and
various skin treatments.
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• Microdermabrasion Devices: For exfoliating and rejuvenating skin.
• LED Light Therapy Machines: Used for skin rejuvenation and acne treatment.
• Ultrasound and Radiofrequency Devices: Non-invasive options for skin tightening
and contouring.
• Injectable Coolers and Storage: Temperature-controlled storage for injectables.
• Autoclave or Sterilization Equipment: For safe sterilization of reusable instruments.
• Medical-Grade Lighting: Adjustable lighting for precise treatments.
• Possible FUTURE Oxygen Therapy/ProNox Machines.
Timeline:
• Design Phase: Complete architectural and equipment planning within 2-3 months.
• Construction Phase: Coordinate MedSpa build-out with overall house construction,
aiming to complete within 6-8 months.
Applicant will send final design and site plans as they are completed. All attached documents are
PRELIMINARY drafts. Please let me know if there are any questions or concerns.
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City of Elk River – Home Occupation Compliance Statement
Prepared for: Northern Rose MedSpa
Prepared by: MJ Johnson Aesthetic RN, BSN, PHN
Date: April 29, 2025
I. Business Overview
Business Name: Northern Rose MedSpa
Business Address: 19289 Upland St. NW, Elk River, MN 55330
Zoning District: R3? Please confirm with Planning Department.
Business Type: Aesthetic and wellness services (e.g., cosmetic injectables, facials, skincare
consultations)
Owner/Operator: MJ Johnson
Contact Information: 320-292-0866 (mj@northernrosemedspa.com)
II. Purpose
This document is provided to demonstrate that Northern Rose MedSpa, operating from a
residential property, meets all City of Elk River requirements for a home occupation under
Zoning Ordinance Section 30-1033 (Home Occupations).
III. Home Occupation Compliance Checklist
Requirement Description Compliance
Business conducted
entirely within the dwelling
All business activities (consultations and treatments)
are conducted in a dedicated room inside the home.
No detached structures are used.
�� Yes
Residential character
preserved
No external alterations have been or will be made
that alter the residential appearance of the home. �� Yes
No exterior evidence of
business
There will not be excessive business signage,
product display, or obnoxious lighting on the
exterior of the home.
�� Yes
Limited traffic
Clients are seen by appointment only, with sufficient
time between clients to avoid traffic or parking
issues.
�� Yes
Parking accommodated
on-site
The property has a driveway with adequate parking
for client vehicles. No street parking will be used. �� Yes
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Requirement Description Compliance
No more than two non-
resident employee
Only the resident operator and the potential for 1-2
licensed &/or unlicensed assistants may be present
in the future during business hours.
�� Yes
No sale of goods on
premises
Retail sales (e.g., skincare products) are conducted
mainly only. Only products relevant to services
rendered will be available for purchase on site.
�� Yes
No noise, odor, vibration,
glare, or electrical
interference
All equipment used (e.g., medical-grade facial
equipment) operates quietly and does not emit odors
or disruptive sounds.
�� Yes
Licensing and certification
The business owner holds all required professional
certifications (e.g., RN or NP license), and a
Minnesota Tax ID is maintained.
�� Yes
Building safety and
accessibility
The treatment area meets local building and safety
codes. Clients can access the treatment space
without navigating hazardous or steep steps.
�� Yes
IV. Supporting Documents (Available Upon Request)
• Floor plan showing business area (within residence)
• Proof of professional licensure
• Liability insurance certificate
• Property ownership or lease agreement
• Proposed hours of operation
• Client intake and scheduling policies
• Product MSDS sheets (if applicable)
V. Conclusion
Northern Rose MedSpa fully complies with the City of Elk River's ordinances governing home
occupations. All operations are designed to maintain the quiet, residential character of the
neighborhood, prioritize client safety, and adhere to all local and state regulations.
This statement is submitted in support of any necessary approvals or applications related to a
Home Occupation Permit or Conditional/Interim Use Permit.
Prepared by:
MJ Johnson Aesthetic RN, BSN, PHN
Owner, Northern Rose MedSpa
320-292-0866 | northernrose.aesthetics@gmail.com
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CITY OF ELK RIVER
SHERBURNE COUNTY
INTERIM USE PERMIT
Case No. IU 25-04
Permit. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the City of Elk River hereby grants an
Interim Use Permit (“Permit”) requested by MJ and Carl Johnson for the following use:
Interim Use Permit of a Residential Occupation to operate a cosmetic and wellness services
business, Northern Rose Medical Wellness, at 19289 Upland St. NW, Elk River
Property. The Permit is for the following described property (“Subject Property”) in the City of
Elk River, Sherburne County, Minnesota:
That part of the Northeast Quarter of the Southwest Quarter (NE1/4 of SW ¼), of Section
Twenty-eight (28), Township Thirty-three (33) North, Range Twenty-six (26) West,
Sherburne County, Minnesota, lying northerly of the northerly line of the right-of-way of
County State Aid Highway No. 1 and lying easterly of the easterly line of the right-of-way of
the Burlington Northern Inc. Railroad, subject to that part thereof taken for Township
Roads.
Owner. Owner of the Subject Property at time of the approval of the Permit:
Carl Edward Johnson and Mary Jane Johnson, owner
Conditions. The Permit is issued subject to the following conditions:
1. No more than two non-resident employees may be present during business hours.
2. Hours of operation shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through
Saturday.
3. The applicant must maintain current professional licensure and liability insurance.
4. The Interim Use Permit must be recorded after a Certificate of Occupancy is issued,
and the occupation shall not begin until the Interim Use Permit is recorded.
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5. The Interim Use Permit will terminate when the property/home is sold.
Termination of Permit. The Permit shall remain in effect only for so long as the conditions set
for the herein are complied with. The City may revoke the Permit following a public hearing for
violation of the terms and/or conditions set forth in the Permit.
Criminal Penalty. Both the owner and any occupant of the Subject Property are responsible for
compliance with the permit. Violation of the terms of the Permit is a criminal misdemeanor.
Recording. The Permit shall be recorded against the title to Subject Property.
Dated: __________, 2025.
CITY OF ELK RIVER
By: ___________________________________
Mayor John J. Dietz
By: ___________________________________
City Clerk Tina Allard
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
) ss.
COUNTY OF SHERBURNE )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this ___ day of _________,
2025, by John J. Dietz and Tina Allard, respectively, the Mayor and City Clerk of the City of Elk
River, a Minnesota municipal corporation, on behalf of the corporation and pursuant to the
authority granted by the City Council.
____________________________________
Notary Public
DRAFTED BY:
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway NW
Elk River, MN 55330
Phone: 763-635-1032
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MJ & Carl Johnson
Interim Use Permit
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Background
§5.5 acres
§Zoned R3
§Residential MedSpa clinic
§In future home
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Background
§Aesthetic and wellness services
§Cosmetic injectables
§Facials
§Skincare consultations
§All activities conducted in a dedicated room
§Appointment only
§~5 clients per day
§Parking on driveway
§No more than two non-resident employees
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Planning Commission
§One resident spoke
§Concerned a second occupation could occur
§No additional comments since PC meeting
§PC had no questions or concerns
§Unanimously recommended approval
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Action Requested
§Approve, by motion, the IUP with the 5 conditions
outlined in the memo
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