Artesia : 2-Story Building Ban Ends

The building of two-story houses and second-story additions can resume under an urgency ordinance passed Tuesday by the Artesia City Council. Builders are allowed to begin immediate construction on two-story houses as long as they meet interim requirements for parking and privacy.

Applicants must get city approval for design, which includes parking. As an example, a minimum of two garage spaces must be provided for a four-bedroom home. The city is also encouraging applicants to confer with their neighbors to make sure privacy of the adjoining properties is protected, City Manager B. Eugene Romig said.

Objections over a request for a two-story, eight-bedroom home had triggered the moratorium, Councilman Ronald Oliver said. The applicant has since modified his design to five bedrooms, Oliver said.

The council was concerned about the effect construction would have on the already-crowded small bedroom community, Oliver said. A moratorium was placed on two-story house construction May 16, while the city staff made a study of the issue. The interim standards will apply until permanent regulations are developed.