The Stow City Board of Zoning Appeals approved a setback variance for an accessory structure at 4372 Meadowlark Trail on Wednesday, allowing a proposed 496-square-foot garage to be placed 6 feet 6 inches from the side lot line instead of the current 10-foot requirement.

Staff noted an updated zoning code scheduled to take effect Feb. 9 that would adjust setback requirements for many accessory structures; under that new code some accessory structures under a specified size would be permitted at a 6-foot setback. The applicant said the builder wanted to proceed now because of timing and material cost concerns and requested the board consider the application this month rather than wait for the code change.

After brief questions about combined accessory area and conformity with other zoning regulations, a motion to approve the variance was made, seconded and passed by roll call; board members present voted yes and the variance was granted.

The applicant indicated the preference to move forward now to allow construction if weather and supplier timelines permit.