Planning commission backs staff study to ease 3-foot setback for accessory structures

The Dallas Planning Commission voted 3-2 at its meeting to ask staff to analyze and prepare code language that could remove or modify the current 3-foot side and rear setback for accessory structures under 15 feet in height.

The recommendation seeks City Council consideration of amendments to Dallas Development Code §2.203, which the staff presentation identified as the section that sets a 3-foot interior side- and rear-yard setback for accessory structures up to 15 feet tall. Code Services staff told commissioners the change is prompted by a high number of nonconforming accessory structures and by the fact that many small structures are exempt from building permits even though zoning setbacks still apply. “So, essentially, this…relates to setbacks for accessory structures. Currently…in residential areas is 3 feet from the side and rear property lines,” the Code Services staff said during the workshop-style discussion.

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