The Village of Waukesha planning commission held a conceptual discussion on May 8 about amendments to accessory‑building rules in the zoning code and asked staff to return with revised language for public hearing.

What was proposed
Village planners proposed allowing, on lots under 1.5 acres, a single detached accessory structure of 20 square feet or less to sit as close as 5 feet from side or rear lot lines (the proposed change would not apply within environmental corridors). The draft would also exempt portable plastic sheds and structures of 20 square feet or less from requiring a zoning permit or building permit while still subjecting them to setback and other regulations.

Commissioner feedback
Several commissioners expressed concerns about a 5‑foot offset. Commissioners cited practical problems—maintenance access, mowing, and neighbor disputes—and public commenters noted the potential for nuisance if structures such as chicken coops or dog houses are placed very near property lines. One commissioner said a lawn mower could not pass between a shed placed 5 feet from the lot line and recommended a larger minimum offset.

Direction to staff
The commission voted to table the item and asked staff to revise the draft before formal public hearing. Commissioners asked staff to consider a larger minimum offset—discussed at the meeting as 10 feet—rather than the originally proposed 5 feet, and to prepare a clean ordinance draft and public‑hearing schedule for the next meeting.

Why it matters
Accessory-building rules affect many homeowners’ everyday uses—sheds, dog houses, small storage structures and coops—and the village sought to clarify when minor structures need permits while balancing neighbor concerns about proximity and nuisance. The changes aim to reduce permitting burden for very small structures while preserving protections for adjacent properties.

Next steps
Staff will return with revised draft language that raises the minimum offset and clarifies permit exemptions and enforcement expectations. The commission asked for that draft to go to public hearing at the next meeting if the draft addresses the commission’s concerns.