In Apple Valley, screening requirements are established to protect the aesthetic quality of properties and neighborhoods. Ordinances require items, when stored outside, to be fully screened from public view by adjacent properties and right of ways.
Within residential neighborhoods outdoor storage is prohibited, generally unless the storage is visually screened from neighboring properties and right of way areas. In commercial, industrial, and institutional districts all exterior storage should be screened with the exception of retail merchandise when permitted, and materials and equipment used for construction purposes on the property. In all districts, all trash containers and dumpsters must be fully screened.
There are many ways required screening could be achieved. Some solutions might include Installing an attractive solid fence or wall, using landscaping and vegetation, or a combination of landscaping and fencing. Natural features may also be used such as differences in elevation, and or vegetative massing from trees and the like. When vegetative screening is used an evergreen type should be used to ensure year round screening.
With questions regarding screening that may be required at your property, what constitutes appropriate screening, or concerns about the lack of necessary screening at a property please contact Apple Valley Code Enforcement by phone at 952.953.2570; or by email at codeenforce@ci.apple-valley.mn.us.