Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
Council approves 1-foot setback variance for detached garage at 715 E. Ninth St., with utility caveat
Loading...
Summary
The City Council granted a variance to allow a detached garage one foot from the west property line at 715 East Ninth Street, but required identification of any utility easements before construction.
The Dell Rapids City Council approved a variance to allow a detached garage with a one-foot side-yard setback at 715 East Ninth Street, subject to a condition that any utility easements under the proposed footprint be identified before construction.
Sheldon Jensen, community development director, explained the request: the property lacks an existing garage and the owner seeks to build the smallest garage needed to store a vehicle. Under the zoning ordinance, a seven-foot side-yard setback normally applies; the applicant requested a six-foot variance to place the detached garage one foot from the property line.
The council discussed precedent, neighbor consent and potential practical issues such as snow storage, roof overhangs and future property-sale scenarios. Jensen noted the property owner to the west had signed in favor of the variance. Council members also asked that any existing utility easements be confirmed before construction.
Alderman Chad Ronshagen moved to approve the variance with the stipulation that any utility easements be identified; Councilmember Gary seconded. The council conducted a roll call and the motion passed 5–3 (yes: Berg, Meyer, Haack, Hanslick, Ron Sagen; no: Nelson, Jones, Cavigelli). The approval applies to the setback variance only; the property owner must still obtain required permits and complete utility locate procedures before construction.
