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Hubbard County panel approves lakeside garage variance for Beasley property on Long Lake
Summary
The Hubbard County Planning Commission Board of Adjustment approved a variance allowing a detached garage within shoreline and side setback areas for Richard Beasley’s Long Lake property, subject to conditions that prohibit living quarters and require removal of an existing shed.
Hubbard County Planning Commission Board of Adjustment members voted unanimously Jan. 27 to grant a variance that lets Richard Beasley build a detached garage at 13224 Beach Haven Road on Long Lake, approving a 28-by-32-foot structure with a maximum height of 22 feet located within the ordinary high-water and side-yard setback areas described in the county Shoreland Management Ordinance.
The decision matters because the property lies inside the 100-foot ordinary high-water mark setback and the applicant requested relief from section 502.2 of the Shoreland Management Ordinance so the garage can be sited on the only available portion of the lot. The board attached two conditions: the detached garage cannot be used as living space or a dwelling unit, and an existing storage shed must be removed when the land-use permit for the garage is obtained.
Beasley, the applicant, told the board the north side of his lot is “the only place we have to build a garage,” and said the proposed footprint would not exceed impervious-surface thresholds. He also summarized a prior court action seeking vacation of Grandview Road, saying the judge concluded “Grandview Road was dedicated in the original plot for the public use forever.” Beasley said the mapped road traverses a steep, unusable bluff and that constructing the garage “certainly wouldn't impede in on anyone, their their ability to see the lake, use the that access.”
Board members reviewed the site plan, septic location and well access. Planning commissioner Ken asked whether the proposed driveway would cross a septic drain field; Beasley responded the septic was replaced the previous summer and the drain field is at the far south end of the property. Commissioner Larry raised access to a new well; Beasley said about 10 feet would remain between the new garage and the cabin, allowing service access.
Veronica moved to approve variance application 67‑V‑24 “as per site plan with the 28 by 32 by a height of no more than 22 feet, in the location as presented in the site plan,” with the two conditions prohibiting living quarters and requiring removal of the existing storage shed. Larry seconded. Ken, Veronica, Larry and Mike each recorded “aye,” and the motion carried.
The board recorded specific findings of fact on practical difficulty, harmony with official controls and the reasonableness of the requested use. The applicant was reminded that, under county rules, the variance must be acted on within five years but that permits related to prior violations could prompt a quicker timeline.
The board closed public comment before voting and directed staff to proceed with the land-use-permit process after the applicant obtains required building permits.
