Cleveland planning panel approves zoning clearance for 30-by-60-foot pavilion

The Cleveland Town Planning and Zoning Commission on May 7 approved a zoning clearance for an open-sided pavilion at a residence after reviewing setbacks and site plans.

Commissioners found the proposed 30-by-60-foot pavilion met setback requirements and other zoning criteria despite uncertainty about whether a building permit will be required. The applicant, Whitney Guymon, said the pavilion will have a roof with no walls, no electrical or water service and a six-foot overhang at the ends; engineering plans have been prepared.

Commission members asked for clarification from county building officials because the structure is large and some members considered it a ‘‘structure’’ rather than an accessory building. The commission approved a zoning clearance so Guymon can proceed to the county to determine whether a building permit is needed; Guymon agreed to report back to the commission with the county’s determination.

Tyler Rowley moved to approve the zoning clearance and Nancy Livingston seconded; members voted in favor. The clearance allows the applicant to begin county paperwork and provides a local record of the commission’s determination that the proposal meets zoning setbacks and related criteria.

Commission discussion noted the pavilion’s orientation is tilted to the south for solar and snow shedding, and that it will sit at least 10 feet from the residence. Commissioners said the town will use the applicant’s follow-up to guide future, similar reviews.

The commission did not require the applicant to install utilities and did not impose additional conditions beyond the requirement that the applicant check with county building staff about permitting.

The commission’s approval is a zoning clearance only; any county building-permit requirement remains subject to the county’s review and code interpretation.