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Planning board OKs oversized pole barn in New Lenox despite staff recommendation to deny
Summary
Will County planners recommended denying a variance to expand accessory building area at 1237 Green Street in New Lenox, but the Planning and Zoning Board approved the request to allow a 3,328 sq ft pole building, bringing total accessory area to 4,049 sq ft after the applicant presented neighbor support.
The Will County Planning and Zoning Board approved a variance allowing an accessory pole building that increases total accessory building area to 4,049 square feet at 1237 Green Street in New Lenox Township, overruling staff’s recommendation to deny the request.
Planner Marguerite Kennedy told the commission the R‑3 district limits accessory buildings to 1,500 square feet and found the applicant's request was primarily a convenience rather than a unique hardship; staff therefore recommended denial. Kennedy noted, however, that other nearby properties already exceeded permitted accessory area and that the proposed structure would likely not alter the character of the neighborhood.
Applicant Cameron Jimenez said the pole barn is for personal storage and a hobby workshop, would meet building and safety codes and would not increase traffic, noise or drainage concerns. "This barn is a small but meaningful step that allows us to responsibly improve and maintain our long term home," Jimenez said, and presented a petition signed by six adjacent neighbors in support.
Commission discussion referenced other large outbuildings in the neighborhood and the absence of objecting neighbors; a motion to approve the variance carried in roll call. The applicant will be required to meet all county building‑code and setback requirements and obtain the necessary permits.
