Board updates zoning chapter to match state ADU rules, removes local campaign-sign limiting language

The Pottawatomie County Board approved second consideration of Ordinance 25-04 to amend Chapter 8 of the county zoning code to comply with new state law on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and to remove a section concerning political campaign signs from the zoning board of adjustment provisions.

Matt White, director of planning and development, told the board the ordinance aligns local code with the state code section on campaign signs and the state language provides minimum allowances. White said he reviewed other counties and that Polk County maintains a sign-permit exemption in its code but is modifying language to reflect the state statute.

Board members discussed ADU mechanics during the hearing. County staff explained an ADU requires an existing primary dwelling on the parcel and that only one ADU is allowed per parcel under the state standard cited by staff. White said ADUs do not always require separate septic or well systems but that systems must be sized to serve both units; adding an ADU often requires increasing septic capacity depending on site conditions. The board also clarified that if what is built is effectively a principal dwelling it would not be treated as an ADU.

Supervisors asked whether state code imposes a limit of one sign per parcel; staff said the state code sets a minimum of one and that the parcel must have a primary residence to qualify for ADU allowance. The board voted by roll call to adopt the ordinance changes.

The transcript does not include the exact state statute citation. County staff said they located the relevant state code section on campaign signs but did not read a formal citation aloud during the meeting.