Neighbors object to 33-foot accessory garage; planning commission recommends approval with conditions

The Oakdale Planning Commission voted Nov. 6 to recommend approval of a conditional use permit allowing a second, two-story accessory garage at 7684 Stillwater Way North, while neighbors urged the commission to limit the structure’s height and restrict driveway and commercial uses.

Planning staff described the proposed building as a 30-by-50-foot structure with roughly 2,100 square feet of floor area (1,500 sq ft on the first level and a 600-sq-ft loft), about 32 feet in height in the submitted plans, and including one door shown at 14 feet. Staff said those elements conflict with local code in two ways: garages must be no higher than the existing principal building and garage doors are limited to 10 feet in height. Staff recommended approval on condition that the applicant revise the plans to meet setback and height requirements, reduce any garage doors to 10 feet, obtain a building permit, remove temporary accessory structures, and not use the new building as a dwelling or for commercial activities prior to City Council consideration.

“Per the applicant, this garage is a few feet taller than the existing home,” planning staff member Max said in presenting the item and explained that if the commission supports the request the plans would need to be revised before council review.

Opposition from adjacent homeowners centered on the building’s height and visual impact. “This proposed structure is 30 feet by 50 feet by 33 feet tall. It’s huge,” said neighbor Dave Rebel, who lives across the street, arguing the mass would be out of scale with nearby one- and two-story homes and could block sunlight for rooftop solar installations. Multiple neighbors asked the commission to set a 20-foot height cap and requested clarity about where a future driveway would be allowed and whether the county (Stillwater Boulevard is a county road) would permit a second curb cut.

Applicant Mike Mansfield, who identified his address as 7684 Still Waterway Boulevard, told the commission he prefers a taller door to fit recreational vehicles and large boats but said, “I’m willing to go with that 10-foot door if we have to.”

Staff told the commission the city has historically required a 10-foot maximum garage door height for similar second-garage approvals and that any alternative would likely require legal review or a variance process. Staff also noted the city code allows one curb cut per property and that Washington County would be involved if access were proposed on the county road.

After closing the public hearing the commission moved, seconded and voted to recommend approval of the conditional use permit subject to the conditions read into the record. Commissioners emphasized that the planning commission’s recommendation is advisory and that final approval rests with the City Council.

The matter will be scheduled for City Council consideration, where the revised plans and the conditions recommended by staff will be reviewed.