Butler County commissioners voted unanimously on Sept. 2 to approve a replat in the Queen Acres subdivision in Hanover Township that combines two lots so the homeowner can install an in-ground pool without violating setback requirements.

Why it matters: The replat resolves a property-line constraint that would have prevented the homeowner from obtaining a permit to install a pool. The recorded plat includes easements and a maintenance agreement to address an existing driveway encroachment between the neighboring parcel.

Craig Cloudy of the Department of Development presented the plat, saying the applicant owns Lots 217 and 218 and is seeking to combine them “for the purpose of the homeowner applicant to install a pool while maintaining the setback property lines.” Cloudy said the Planning Commission approved the replat on Aug. 12.

Commissioners asked whether an existing driveway apron encroaching across lot lines would be addressed. Cloudy said the plat includes “a driveway easement number 1 and 2” and a maintenance agreement that will be filed at recording to permit the neighbor continued access and clarify maintenance responsibility. He also said the encroachment existed before the replat and that the replat does not create a new encroachment.

A commissioner asked about Hanover Township pool regulations; staff responded that pools must be located in the backyard, be enclosed by at least a 4-foot fence with a self-latching enclosure, and meet the required setbacks. The board then voted to approve the plat; the vote was recorded as yes by Commissioner Carpenter, Commissioner Rogers and Commissioner Dixon.

Clarifying details: Planning Commission approval on Aug. 12; applicant owns Lots 217 and 218; recorded documents will include two driveway easements and a maintenance agreement to address the driveway apron that extends over a property line; final recording is required before permits for the pool can be issued.

Ending: The replat was approved by the board; staff will record the easement and maintenance agreement when the replat is filed, and the homeowner may apply for pool permitting after recording and compliance with setbacks.