Why is this being proposed?  

The purpose of this proposal is to preserve and protect water sources and open space areas. 

According to a memorandum from the City’s Planning Director, “action is necessary to further the legitimate government interest in protecting rivers, creeks, streams, and other water bodies in the city and increasing the protection of groundwater protection areas.”  

Some may recall a private request to place a gas station on the corner of 2100 South and 1300 East, next to Sugar House Park. The application was ultimately denied, largely due to concerns about the gas station’s impact on the park and its water body. The gas station request motivated the proposed Gas Station Standards text amendment.

Proposed Distance Requirements 

The proposed ordinance would require a new gas station to be at least 350 feet from any river, stream, or other water body, or a park or other open space area that is at least one acre or larger. This is about the distance of a standard football field*, end zone to end zone.   

*The actual distance of a football field from end zone to end zone is 360 feet. 

Next Steps:  

The Council will continue discussing and vote on this proposal at a future meeting.

Input may be shared anytime online, by email at council.comments@slc.gov, or by phone at 801-535-7654.