Planning board backs accessory‑structure chart change, urges clearer height definition

The Franklin Township Planning Board voted to recommend adoption of ordinance 0525 (accessory structures) and asked the township committee to add a footnote to the ordinance chart clarifying how "maximum permitted height" (mean height) is measured.

Planner Chris reviewed the proposed chart that ties accessory‑structure size and mean height to lot size; he said the current baseline allowance in the township is 1,200 square feet and a 15‑foot mean height and recommended an asterisk and note be added beneath the chart so readers can see the ordinance's height definition without hunting through the code.

Mr. Brandt moved the board recommend amending the chart to add a note referencing the existing chapter definition for building height; the motion carried on a recommendation vote.

Public comments focused on practical impacts for small, irregular lots and on well/septic setbacks. One resident warned that some smaller lots could appear to meet the new numeric limits without accounting for septic fields, driveways and existing structures, and asked whether the ordinance would inadvertently reduce oversight. Board members and staff said other ordinances (setbacks, stormwater and zoning review) remain in force and that applicants would still be reviewed for compliance; the planner said a proposed chart note and cross references would improve clarity for readers and applicants.

The board forwarded the ordinance to the township committee with the recommendation that the chart include a clear note on the ordinance's height definition, and asked staff to make the clarifying language part of the committee referral packet.