Auto Repair

Frequently Asked Questions

​​​Major body and engine work and repairs to automobiles, other passenger vehicles, or boats.  

Examples include but are not limited to:  Rebuilding of radiator, transmission, and other major machine shop, body rebuilding, and painting. (See Section 7.3 of the Zoning Code)​.

Minor adjustments, service, and repairs to automobiles or other passenger vehicles.  Examples include but are not limited to:  radiator, transmission, muffler, and brake repair, lubricant shops, diagnosis and tune-up, smog inspection, auto glass repair and installation, automotive seat covers and re-upholstery, tire sales and service, and car washes..  Shall not include body and engine work as defined in “Major Automobile Repair." (See Section 7.3 of the Zoning Code)​​​​.

Major Automobile Repair is authorized in the LC, GC, M-1, and M-2 zones subject to the requirements found in SZC 3.2.5, Table 3.1 (Commercial Uses)(H)(6), and the use standards found in SZC 3.7.9.E.

Minor Automobile Repair is authorized in the CMC, LC, GC, M-1, and M-2 zones subject to the requirements found in SZC 3.2.5, Table 3.1 (Commercial Uses)(H)(7), and the use standards found in SZC 3.7.9.E.

​Minor repair and maintenance of farm equipment or vehicles and similar equipment, for personal use or as a hobby use, may be permitted in all zoning districts for the benefit of the owner or resident(s), subject to meeting the following criteria:

  • Minor repair and maintenance of vehicles and similar equipment shall include brake part replacement, minor tune-up, change of oil and filter, repair of flat tire, lubrication and other similar operations.  
  • Minor vehicle repair or maintenance does not include body or painting work of vehicle or vehicle parts.

It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in, or permit others to engage in, minor vehicle repair or maintenance under any of the following circumstances:

  • Using tools not normally found in a residence;
  • Conducted on vehicles registered to persons not currently residing on the lot or parcel; and,
  • Conducted outside a fully enclosed garage or accessory structure and resulting in the vehicle being inoperable for a period in excess of 24 hours.  (See Section 3.2.5, Table 3.2 (I) of the Zoning Code)

The chemicals involved in automobile repair can pollute our neighborhoods and endanger the health and well being of our residents.

Furthermore, this kind of activity increases vehicle traffic and the visual impact can negatively impact property values.