City Council approves 16-foot sidewall height for barndominiums without acreage restrictions

The East Bethel City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including discussions on property development and zoning amendments. The meeting began with a review of a property development proposal, where it was confirmed that the existing house and garage on the site would be removed, while a small shed would remain as a legal nonconforming structure.

The council then moved on to discuss a zoning tax amendment concerning barndominiums. Earlier in the year, the council had directed the planning commission to hold a public hearing on this matter. Following a robust discussion, the planning commission recommended a change to allow a 16-foot sidewall height for barndominiums on parcels of five acres or more. This amendment aims to accommodate larger vehicles and equipment typically associated with such structures.

During the council's deliberation, members expressed concerns about the five-acre minimum lot size requirement. Some council members argued that it would be unreasonable to restrict the sidewall height to larger parcels, suggesting that a two-acre minimum would be more appropriate. They emphasized the need for flexibility, allowing residents with smaller lots to build barndominiums without the burden of obtaining a variance.

The discussion highlighted the potential for confusion regarding the sidewall height regulations, particularly whether the 16-foot height applied only to garage portions or the entire structure. Ultimately, the council agreed to modify the ordinance to permit a 16-foot sidewall height for barndominiums on any lot size, rather than limiting it to five acres.

After thorough debate, a motion was made to approve the amended ordinance with the discussed changes. The motion passed, reflecting the council's commitment to accommodating residents' needs while ensuring clarity in zoning regulations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's efforts to adapt zoning laws to better serve the community, particularly in relation to modern housing trends like barndominiums. The next steps will involve finalizing the ordinance changes and ensuring that residents are informed of the new regulations.