Commission recommends variance for oversized accessory building behind 1878 home

The Easttown Planning Commission on June 2 voted to recommend that the zoning hearing board grant a variance permitting construction of an accessory building whose gross floor area exceeds 40% of the principal dwelling footprint.

The applicant (presenting) described a proposal for a garage, shop and art studio behind a historic house built in 1878. “The footprint of the main house is 20 by 3,600 square feet. The 40% of that is 240 square feet, which would be totally inadequate for what we're proposing,” the presenter said, explaining that the proposed accessory structure would provide storage and workspace for the household and would not exceed the property's impervious coverage limits.

Commissioners commended the applicant for retaining the historic dwelling and asked technical questions about driveway access and the alley behind the property. The applicant said the alley is shared by multiple properties, that the property has access under an 1878 deed that describes the alley as 20 feet wide, and that neighbors currently use the alley for access. Staff also noted the township's U‑Corridor sidewalk project will run along the front of the house and that the applicant granted the township an easement for an ADA ramp and related improvements.

The Chair moved that the commission recommend a variance from section 455‑47C to permit construction of the accessory building with a gross floor area approximately 173% of the existing dwelling footprint; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The recommendation will be forwarded to the zoning hearing board for a formal hearing and public comment.