Plan commission approves pool‑house ADU design, recommends conditional‑use permit to Board of Aldermen

The Clayton Plan Commission’s Architectural Review Board on March 3 approved the architectural design for an accessory dwelling unit — a one‑car garage and pool house with guest space — at 30 Southmore Drive and recommended the companion conditional‑use permit (CUP) be sent to the Board of Aldermen with conditions.

Staff told the commission the site is in an R‑1 district and the accessory structure would increase lot coverage from 39.4% to 48.4% and raise calculated runoff for a 15‑year, 20‑minute storm from 1.25 cubic feet per second to 1.34 cfs; a dry well is proposed to capture roof runoff. Staff said materials and proportions match the existing house and surrounding area and recommended approval of the architectural review and recommendation of the CUP to the Board of Aldermen, conditioned on adherence to Chapter 405, Article 2, Section 405.330 and the recording of a deed restriction prior to building permit issuance.

Lauren Strutman, the project representative, and homeowner Marilyn Edison described the accessory building as an all‑brick pool house matching the house’s brick, black‑finish windows and a small screened porch. Eric Vietmeyer of Volz Engineering said the small scale and limited land disturbance is why the item was before the board for architectural review and not full site plan review; he was present to answer civil questions if needed.

Commissioners asked routine design and submittal questions, including whether material samples would be supplied (staff said samples are generally requested for new construction but not required here because the new work matches the existing house). Commissioners also sought clarification that an ADU may not be rented, sold or transferred separately from the principal residence; staff confirmed the CUP language and the required deed restriction are intended to ensure the ADU remains tied to the main property and that short‑term rentals are not allowed in Clayton.

The board voted to approve the architectural submittal as presented and to recommend approval of the conditional‑use permit to the Board of Aldermen with the two staff conditions: (1) compliance with Chapter 405, Article 2, Section 405.330 and (2) recording proof of the required deed restriction before issuance of a building permit. The commission’s vote was recorded by voice as all in favor.

The Board of Aldermen will consider the CUP at a future meeting (staff said applicants will receive scheduling and meeting information by email).