Planning commission approves conditional use for 4,000‑sq‑ft accessory building in A‑1 area

The Lincoln County Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit allowing a 4,000‑square‑foot accessory building to be constructed behind an existing single‑family home in an area zoned A‑1 (agricultural).

Toby Brown, county planning staff, said the zoning ordinance requires a conditional use permit for accessory buildings larger than 1,500 square feet located in subdivisions with more than four lots. Brown told the commission that the neighborhood already contains several oversized accessory buildings — one nearby structure measures about 6,000 square feet — and that the proposed building meets minimum site development standards.

Applicant Ross Dilstra said the building is for personal storage for vehicles and recreational equipment. “It’s just for personal storage for cars and boats, camper,” Dilstra said.

Staff said the property owner sent required notices, the county posted the property, and staff had not received objections. Staff recommended approval with five conditions listed in the staff report; the commission approved the permit by roll call. Commissioners Sweeter, Otten, Boots and John Lee voted yes.

Brown noted the county will require confirmation that any driveway or road access approvals are in place before a building permit is issued. The conditional use approval addresses only the land‑use permission; the applicant must secure a building permit and any applicable driveway/road district approvals before construction begins.

The commission’s action will be transmitted to the Board of Commissioners as required by county procedures.