Planning commission denies variance request for accessory structure at 1003 S. Pine

The Newton Planning Commission voted to deny a variance request for 1003 South Pine on Sept. 8. The variance would have allowed a detached garage approximately 458 square feet over the city’s maximum accessory-structure allowance.

Planning staff presented the application details: the original pole-barn-style garage was built in 2014 and was fire damaged on June 14, 2025; the applicant proposed demolishing the damaged structure, removing two smaller sheds, and rebuilding a single 30-by-70 detached garage (about 2,100 square feet total), which exceeds the accessory-area cap (800 square feet or 10% of lot area). The applicant, Dennis Stassen of 1003 South Pine, said his plan is to replace the fire-damaged building and consolidate smaller outbuildings.

Commissioners reviewed the five variance criteria required by city code, including uniqueness, impacts on adjacent owners, hardship, public welfare and conformance with the spirit of the ordinance. Several commissioners questioned whether the condition was sufficiently unique and raised concerns about setting precedent. Staff and the applicant agreed the proposed structure met setbacks and lot coverage aside from the percentage limit. After discussion, a commissioner moved to deny the variance on the ground that the application did not meet all required standards; the motion carried by voice vote.

The applicant said the damaged building has been demolished and that the request was intended to reduce clutter and replace structures lost to fire. The commission’s denial means the applicant may revise plans to conform with the accessory-structure size limits or submit a new application addressing the commission’s concerns.