Council amends accessory-structure rules to allow larger garages on bigger lots and clarify shed limits

On April 14, Oak Forest City Council approved Ordinance 2026-04-11480 to revise Section 8-101 of the zoning code governing accessory structures. The amendments respond to recurring variance requests and seek to provide clearer, size-based rules that reflect lot size.

Under the new rules, properties larger than 10,000 square feet may build garages sized up to 10% of the lot area, provided the accessory structure does not exceed the primary residence in size. For very large lots, the proposed shed allowance for properties over 21,780 square feet was increased from 1% to 2% of lot area, but a 400-square-foot maximum was established to prevent sheds from functioning as quasi-garages; the Building Department will use presence of a garage door as a defining feature.

Assistant Director Paul Ruane told council the change replaces a strict 2,000-square-foot cap and aims to reduce the number of variance requests while preserving protections against oversized accessory buildings. Council voted 7–0 to adopt the text amendment. Staff said the changes would take effect per the ordinance schedule and the Building and Community Development departments will update application guidance for residents and contractors.

Supporters argued the changes modernize the code for larger lots; some council members and staff noted the amendment preserves a check that an accessory structure may not exceed the primary residence.

The ordinance is intended to apply prospectively and to give clearer administrative guidance for future permit reviews and variance determinations.