Kent County approves special exception for Lees' accessory pool building at Homestead View Road

On April 11, 2025, Kent County planning staff recommended and Director Bill Mackey approved an administrative special exception for Mr. and Mrs. Lees to construct a 1,600‑square‑foot pool building that exceeds the county’s median 17‑foot height limit on a 4.53‑acre parcel at 12169 Homestead View Road in Wharton.

Rob Tracy summarized the staff review: the proposed accessory building would be sited in the side yard, meet required setbacks per the applicant’s site plan, and be screened by an existing tree line along the eastern property line. Staff found the proposal consistent with the Kent County Land Use Ordinance and recommended approval with a two‑year lapse condition for substantial construction.

Applicant George Lees explained the building will be tucked behind trees and will use colors and materials to coordinate with the existing 6,341‑square‑foot single‑family dwelling on the lot. Lees said landscaping and additional hollies will be added to provide year‑round screening.

Director Bill Mackey accepted staff, TAC and applicant comments into the record and said the two‑year lapse is acceptable for construction timelines. He instructed that a written decision will be issued in one to two weeks and reminded applicants the 30‑day Maryland appeal period begins on the issuance of that written decision; the permit review can proceed but the building permit cannot be issued until after the appeal period lapses.