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Split Rock property with unpermitted accessory dwelling unit continued; city requires survey and permits
Summary
Norwalk staff found an accessory dwelling unit in use without a current permit at 33 Split Rock Road. The owner has submitted an application but not the required survey; the hearing was continued to April 16 with direction to obtain a survey and pursue permits.
Planning and zoning staff told the hearing that a former accessory apartment had been removed in the early 2000s and that current records show a dwelling unit in use without the required land‑record affidavit and zoning/building approvals. The property owner submitted an application for zoning approval on Aug. 26 but the application lacked the required survey, and staff issued a citation on Feb. 11 to expedite compliance.
A surveyor contacted the city on Feb. 17 saying he was retained to perform a survey; staff told the hearing the field work and drafting could take up to a month. Director Steve Cluffin and Deputy Zoning Inspector John Hayducki explained that, under the accessory dwelling unit rules, the owner must reside in one of the units and an affidavit must be recorded on the land records before a certificate of zoning compliance is issued.
A nearby resident, Mikaela Tiffin of 33 Split Rock Road, testified about longer‑term occupancy patterns and said the property has had short‑term rentals and long periods when the owner was away. Staff noted the application remains incomplete without the survey and that building‑department and health approvals will also be required.
The hearing officer found the violation and continued the matter to April 16 to allow the owner to produce the survey and pursue the required permits; the record notes the citation posting dates and that a maximum fine (stated in the hearing) could exceed $10,000 if enforcement proceeds. Staff will check for the filed survey and application progress before the next hearing.
