Zoning board approves oversized accessory building variance for residential lot

The Tazewell County Zoning Board approved a variance to allow construction of an 1,860-square-foot accessory building on an R-1 low-density residential lot, which would bring the property’s total accessory structure area to 2,676 square feet, exceeding the local allowance.

The petition appeared on the record as case 2519B. The petitioner who answered the sworn-in record as Michael Kellerman described the project as a 30-by-50 metal building with an attached lean-to to shelter trailers and personal equipment; he said the building is for personal storage and would include electricity. Planning staff noted the Tazewell County Health Department indicated a septic permit may be needed if wastewater sources are added to the new building; other county agencies on the record had no comment.

Board discussion focused on lot coverage, access to the lean-to, septic and drain considerations, and the petitioner’s stated intent to keep equipment inside rather than outside. The petitioner said he uses the back of the lot for parking during snowstorms (he said he works for the county highway department) and intends the lean-to to allow him to shelter a trailer under roof.

Board members moved to approve the findings of fact for the variance; the findings and the variance were approved in the public meeting. The board noted that the accessory building is intended for personal use and emphasized that any required health- or septic-related permitting must be followed before occupancy or construction if plumbing or wastewater is included.

The board recorded the approval in its minutes; community development staff will monitor permit submissions and ensure any required health or septic approvals are satisfied prior to permit issuance.