Council to send notice after Planning & Zoning finds accessory-shed out of compliance

Planning & Zoning reported to the Cleveland Town Council on July 3 that an accessory shed on a downtown property appears to be out of compliance with town ordinances and building-permit requirements.

A Planning & Zoning member said the shed appears to violate setback rules for accessory buildings — accessory buildings are required to be 10 feet from the house and 5 feet from the property line by the town's ordinance as read during the meeting — and that the structure may exceed thresholds that require a building permit. Members raised safety concerns about sightlines for vehicles entering driveways near the shed.

Planning & Zoning asked whether the council wanted staff to send a letter advising the property owner of the alleged violation. The council discussed whether sending a non-enforcement informational letter required a formal council action; staff said the town's template letter (provided by the town attorney) can include the ordinance reference, a compliance deadline and a fine notice if the council chooses to pursue enforcement.

Council agreed to send the informational letter that cites the ordinance and to put the item on next month's agenda so the council can determine whether further enforcement (including fines or permits) is necessary. Staff will allow the property owner an opportunity to correct the violation before escalating enforcement.