Troy ZBA forwards proposed neighborhood zoning overlay to Planning Commission

The Troy City Zoning Board of Appeals voted to forward a draft resolution to the Planning Commission asking staff to study whether a targeted zoning overlay or ordinance amendment could reduce the need for frequent variances in an older subdivision where many lots are smaller than current minimums.

City staff presented a memo and maps showing that five subdivisions in the study area were platted in the mid-1950s; roughly 70% of lots in the area are smaller than the current 7,500-square-foot minimum for the district and the average lot size is about 6,972 square feet. Staff recommended the board consider sending a resolution to the Planning Commission requesting study of an approach that would allow the reconstruction of detached accessory structures (such as garages) in their original location without repeating variance requests.

The board discussed potential fire-safety and building-code implications and confirmed that any overlay or ordinance change would still need to meet building-code fire-separation standards. "The building code allows up to an 18 inch setback from a property line with a detached residential accessory structure provided that certain fire [protections are] constructed," a board member summarized during discussion with staff.

Board member McCauley said he would be willing to attend Planning Commission hearings to present the ZBA's perspective. The board voted to approve the resolution as printed in the meeting packet and to have Mr. McCauley and the ZBA liaison attend or be available when the Planning Commission considers the matter.

The motion to forward the resolution passed unanimously. The next step is Planning Commission study; staff will shepherd the packet and the boardliaison will present the ZBArecommendation at the Planning Commission meeting when scheduled.