Applicant-initiated Text Amendment
Stealth Cell Tower Text Amendment (Revised)
Petition Number: PLNPCM2020-00284
In mid-2020, Pete Simmons, representing Verizon Wireless, submitted an application to change Salt Lake City’s zoning regulations regarding Stealth Wireless Communication Facilities (cell towers disguised as something else). Specifically, he requested to allow stealth cell towers up to 60 feet in all zoning districts within Salt Lake City. Before the Planning Commission was able to review his request, Mr. Simmons asked that the Planning Division give Verizon Wireless time to review their application and address concerns raised by City Staff and the community.
The revised request from Verizon Wireless is now smaller in scope. They now are asking for a change to the City’s zoning regulations that would allow stealth cell towers up to 75 feet tall in only the PL Public Lands Zoning District. They have also requested to change the zoning regulations to allow stealth towers disguised as pine trees in the PL Public Lands District.
What is a Stealth Antenna?
Stealth antennas are wireless communication facilities that are completely disguised as another object or otherwise concealed from view, thereby concealing the intended use and appearance of the facility. Examples of stealth facilities include, but are not limited to, flagpoles, pine trees, or architectural elements such as dormers, steeples, and chimneys.
Why has the applicant made this request?
The applicant has submitted this request because they claim it is difficult to provide effective wireless services with towers shorter than 60 feet, as shorter towers often have interference from trees or surrounding buildings. The proposed facilities are necessary for providers to deploy both 4G and 5G services.
Why is this request going through a planning process?
To be adopted, requests to amend the Salt Lake City Zoning Ordinance require a recommendation from the Planning Commission and approval from the City Council.
Additional Information
Next Steps
- Notice of this application has been sent to all recognized organizations within Salt Lake City. These organizations may choose to schedule the matter at an upcoming meeting. Please contact an organization chair for more information on whether they will review this petition and when and where that meeting will occur. Contact information regarding recognized organizations can be found at: https://www.slc.gov/community-councils/.
- Prior to the public hearing, the Planning Division will evaluate the proposal against the applicable standards, taking into consideration public comments as they relate to the standards, and develop a recommendation for the Planning Commission.
- A Planning Commission hearing regarding this request is tentatively scheduled in December 2021, where they will provide time for additional public comments and make a recommendation to City Council.
- The City Council will hold another public hearing for additional public comments and make the final decision on the matter.
Public Comments and Questions
The public comment period closed on December 1, 2021. For additional information on this project please contact the staff planner.
Aaron Barlow // aaron.barlow@slcgov.com // 801-535-6182
Before the Planning Commission Hearing, the Planning Division will evaluate the proposal against the applicable zoning standards, taking into consideration public comments as they relate to the standards, and develop a recommendation for the Planning Commission