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Zoning board denies request to legalize fenced storage yard on Fig Street
Summary
The board unanimously denied Gerald Reidenbach's request to legalize an outdoor storage yard at 335 Fig Street, citing code prohibitions for storage yards in the light-industrial zone and neighbors' concerns the site resembles a junkyard.
The Scranton Zoning Hearing Board unanimously denied a request by Gerald Reidenbach to legalize an outdoor storage yard at 335 Fig Street, finding the use is not permitted in the light-industrial zone and citing neighbor complaints about the site's condition.
Reidenbach said he uses the adjacent lot for hobbies and has fenced it; he told the board that a woodworking business had occupied the location historically. City staff and at least one board member characterized the lot’s appearance as akin to a junkyard and noted that storage yards are not permitted under the zoning code for that district.
Board members referenced the ordinance and explained that junkyards and storage lots have setback and separation requirements from residential property lines. The board voted 3–0 to decline the special-exception request and advised Reidenbach he may appeal the decision to the courts.
Reidenbach asserted he had evidence the prior use dated back decades and said he would consider an appeal. The board emphasized that appeals are the avenue to contest the zoning interpretation.
