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Planning commission allows existing 20x20 shed at 4214 Bowling Drive to remain with conditions
Summary
The Planning Commission approved VAR2026-03 on June 18, 2026, permitting an existing 20x20 accessory shed to remain in the rear setback at 4214 Bowling Drive with conditions that it not be inhabited and that permits be required for any change.
The Forest Park Planning Commission approved a variance on June 18 allowing an existing 20-by-20-foot accessory structure to remain within the required 10-foot rear-yard setback at 4214 Bowling Drive (VAR2026-03).
Planner Ryan Sadler told the commission the shed had been constructed without required permits, prompting a stop-work order. The applicant reported the structure replaced a deteriorated storage building, was completed over a single weekend, and represents an investment of approximately $15,000. Staff characterized the hardship as primarily self-created but recommended approval with conditions tied to the existing structure shown on the submitted site plan.
Miguel, the property owner, addressed the commission and said, "My name is Miguel and I live at 4214 Bowling Drive. And the shed is just for tools only." He confirmed the shed has no utilities — "No power, no water, nothing." Commissioners proposed and the body adopted a condition expressly prohibiting conversion of the shed into habitable living quarters; the motion to approve was seconded and carried by voice vote.
The variance was approved with conditions that the approval apply only to the existing accessory structure as shown on the site plan, that the shed not be enlarged or modified in the required setback without city approval, and that the owner obtain all required permits and inspections. The staff report cited section 8-8-193 of the municipal code concerning variance findings and noted the code’s emphasis that variances address unique property conditions and not self-imposed hardships.
