Rowlett planning commission keeps public hearing open on 1,200‑sq‑ft accessory structure at Castle Drive

The Rowlett Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 20 voted unanimously to keep a public hearing open on a request to allow a 1,200-square-foot enclosed accessory structure at 3706 Castle Drive.

City planner Liliana Morejon presented the item and said the concrete driveway has been brought into compliance but additional work on a pergola, pavilion and other structures remains under review by the building department. Morejon said the SUP before the commission applies only to the garage structure and that the proposed building conforms with lot-coverage, height and setback standards.

Commissioners pressed staff on whether any of the work had already been constructed without permits and whether remaining asphalt areas would be removed. Morejon said some work has begun and that nonconforming improvements may have to be removed or rebuilt to meet code: "He has to conform with all of their standards" (Morejon). Commissioner Frisby summarized the commission's concern: "we have a citizen who has taken it upon himself to go ahead and make improvements to his property without following the requirements that the city has for permitting" and recommended delaying action to avoid giving the appearance of excusing unpermitted work.

Frisby moved to keep the public hearing open and continue the item until 7 p.m. on Oct. 22 to allow staff time to obtain additional reviews, including a city-engineer review of drainage, and to let the owner work toward compliance. The motion was seconded by Tucker and passed unanimously.

No action was taken on the SUP itself; staff emphasized that any construction still requires the building‑permit process, inspections and any necessary corrective work before a final approval could be issued. The commission asked staff to report back with any drainage review and compliance updates before the continued hearing.