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CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A SALVAGE YARD - CASE #CU-109-16
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Summary and Background Information:
USA Enterprises is requesting approval of a Conditional Use Permit for an existing salvage yard and inoperable vehicle storage located at 5255 East 48th Avenue, Denver, CO 80216. This would allow for the existing business to become legal and conforming while also enhancing the appearance of the site.
The existing USA Enterprises salvage yard business began operations on the subject property in 2012 as a tenant. The property was subsequently purchased, and the applicant has been working with staff since that time to bring the property into compliance with various city codes. Building and fire code issues have already been addressed to ensure safety on the site, and the land use is the last issue. Approval of this Conditional Use Permit would make the existing use legal and conforming with the Land Development Code, and allow the applicant to transition to a more retail-based business model, increasing sales tax revenues.
Although the site was originally developed in 1964, it does meet most of the current standards for industrial development. The overall proposed site layout provides adequate parking, and an appropriate surface for vehicle traffic and outdoor storage. In addition, the applicant is proposing to upgrade the appearance of the site with additional landscaping along East 48th Avenue and Forest Street as well as with a new screen-style fence around the perimeter of the site. The applicant worked with staff and an adjacent property owner to provide additional screening along the common property line and to relocate the main access to prevent increased cut-through traffic from a retail sales operation.
The surrounding area is developed for industrial purposes, including several other heavy industrial uses, and is identified for future general industrial uses. The outdoor storage of inoperable vehicles will be concealed with a screening perim...
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