Planning commission approves replacement garage at 51 South Jennings Lane

The Rockville Planning Commission on Sept. 9 approved an application to replace an existing garage at 51 South Jennings Lane submitted by property owner Max Gregoric and represented at the meeting by Chance Wright.

Commissioner Jane moved to approve the application, saying it did not conflict with Rockville Land Use Code Chapter 8 or the Rockville General Plan; Commissioner Tim seconded the motion. The commission voted unanimously (Andy — yes; Tim — yes; Linda — yes; Ken — yes; Jane — yes) to approve the permit.

Commissioners and the applicant described the project as a teardown and rebuild of the existing garage with a slightly larger footprint and increased height. The applicant confirmed the rebuilt garage would be about 16 feet tall. The plans show the new garage will be connected to an existing studio by a breezeway; commissioners and staff discussed whether that configuration made the two structures "attached" for fire-safety and occupancy purposes.

Commissioner Jane and others said the fire marshal had raised concern about connected buildings that include sleeping areas. The applicant and town staff said the fire marshal reviewed the plans and categorized the structure as an accessory building rather than an attached living unit. Commissioners noted the breezeway separation shown on the plans is 8 feet; staff explained the fire marshal prefers either an adhered attachment built to dwelling-fire standards or a 10-foot separation (including overhangs) for defensible separation between a living space and a building used as a garage.

Commissioners requested the applicant be mindful of the fire marshal's guidance. Staff suggested that if the contractor prefers to preserve the closer connection the contractor should build garage-style fire separation (for example, garage-grade drywall) as if the building were attached.

During discussion commissioners confirmed the studio’s floor area shown on the plans is 62 square feet and that the new garage will have only electrical service (no water). They also asked that any exterior lighting be downward‑facing and limited to avoid unnecessary illumination. No amendments were made to the application at the meeting.

The commission approved the application and closed the agenda item. Staff and the applicant said they would coordinate with the fire marshal on final plan sign-off and ensure any required construction details or separations are documented prior to building permit issuance.

What happened next: the commission moved on to other agenda items; the applicant and representative left after the vote.

Why it matters: the decision authorizes a larger and taller accessory building on a single‑residence parcel in Rockville and highlights fire-safety review questions that staff and the fire marshal will resolve during final permit review.