Commission recommends tightening accessory building setbacks; public hearing closes

The Planning Commission voted Thursday to recommend a code amendment clarifying accessory building setback requirements in residential and agricultural zones.

Staff presented the amendment as a cleanup item to resolve inconsistent language across residential zones that could allow accessory buildings to be sited in front of a main dwelling when lots and house setbacks varied. "We just wanted to add clarification to each of the residential zones stating that the accessory building setback must be behind the main dwelling," a staff member said.

Commissioners discussed exceptions for larger agricultural (A5/A2) lots and cul-de-sac/pie-shaped lots where a house sits far back from the front property line. Staff said variances remain an option for unusual lots and that accessory buildings dedicated to agriculture (for example a barn for an agricultural use, not accessory to a dwelling) would not be covered by the proposed accessory-building rule. One member of the public reminded commissioners that variance criteria have five statutory standards and cannot be granted simply for convenience.

After hearing public comment the commission closed the public hearing and moved to recommend approval of the amendment as presented by staff. Commissioner Stokes made the motion to recommend approval; Commissioner Chad Cotter seconded and the motion passed by voice vote.

The amendment will proceed to the City Council for final consideration. Staff noted that variances and potential carve-outs for A5/A2 agricultural parcels could be considered as part of council review.