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BZA grants Trine University variance to exceed height limit for proposed sports air dome up to 73 feet
Summary
The Angola Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance allowing Trine University to construct an air-inflated sports dome taller than the zoning code's height limit, with the approval capped at 73 feet and subject to subsequent development-plan review.
The Angola City Board of Zoning Appeals on Sept. 22 approved a development-standard variance allowing Trine University to build an air-inflated sports dome on its campus that will exceed the zoning code's maximum structure height.
City staff presented case 2025 BZA 09002 and said the university proposes an air dome to provide year-round practice space. Staff reported the dome would be roughly 240 by 380 feet (initial rendering) and that the overall height, when foundation work is included, should be 73 feet, exceeding the University District primary structure limit of 65 feet. Staff recommended approval and noted the dome will be presented to the plan commission on Oct. 13 for development-plan approval.
Representatives from MKS, the project contractor, described the dome as intended to be inflated year-round and said the structure will include a small accessory entry building that helps seal the dome. Carter Seymour of MKS said the facility is internal to campus and will not front a public right of way; the architect also reported that fire-department access has been addressed with an access road for emergency vehicles.
Board members asked about stormwater and drainage impacts; staff said drainage and stormwater will be handled during development-plan review. The board read the required findings and concluded that strict application of the 65-foot height limit would cause practical difficulties because the dome needs a certain internal height to be functional for sports practice.
The board approved the variance with a stated condition allowing up to 73 feet in height. Staff indicated the project will return to the plan commission for development-plan approval and for technical review of stormwater and emergency access.
