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Warrick County BZA approves variance allowing 1-foot setback for homeowner's utility barn
Summary
The Warrick County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance for Lee and Brenda Stoner to place an unattached utility structure that will sit 1 foot inside a 15-foot rear setback at 4244 Country Ridge Drive, imposing permits, easement protections and a six-month expiration on the approval.
The Warrick County Board of Zoning Appeals on the March agenda approved a variance allowing Lee and Brenda M. Stoner to build an unattached accessory structure that encroaches 14 feet into a 15-foot rear setback, leaving a 1-foot setback at 4244 Country Ridge Drive.
The decision follows the applicant’s testimony that utilities, a patio and a drainage easement at the rear of the lot limit where a shed could be placed. The applicant, Lee Stoner, said what he is "looking at is 10 x 12 utility barn," and explained the structure would be painted wood to match the house siding. Staff told the board notices to adjacent property owners were completed and that the application was otherwise in order.
A board member identified in the record as Jeff moved to approve the variance and read the board’s standard findings of fact, citing that the grant would not be injurious to public health or welfare, would not substantially harm adjacent property values, and that the hardship arises from conditions peculiar to the lot (drainage, easements and limited usable rear yard). The board’s motion included multiple conditions: the applicant must obtain an improvement location permit and a building permit, maintain compliance with Warrick County zoning ordinances, and respect existing utility easements and facilities. The approval also includes an expiration provision: the variance will expire six months from the date unless a permanent base is obtained or the conditions are met; a single six-month renewal may be granted by the area plan commission secretary for good cause.
The motion was seconded and the board voted in favor; the chair announced, "motion carries." The board directed staff to proceed with typical administrative follow-up; staff said the minutes would be typed and the permit process could proceed.
The variance affects a lot recorded as Rabbit Run Phase 3, lot 15, with the Primrose assisted living facility to the south and R1 single-family zoning on the other sides. The approval does not alter protections for utility easements or require further action by adjacent property owners.
Next steps: the applicant must secure the improvement location and building permits and comply with the terms in the variance within six months for the approval to remain in effect.
