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Board allows homeowner to retain old house and accessory structures during new construction, sets 90‑day demolition maximum
Summary
The board approved two motions letting Nicole Doctor and Jeff Kushel keep an existing dwelling and existing accessory buildings in place while a new house is built, with a condition that the old dwelling be demolished within 90 days after the new home receives occupancy and suggested recording a property-maintenance easement for the shared private driveway.
Porter County's Board of Zoning Appeals approved two related requests allowing Nicole Doctor and Jeff Kushel to keep an existing single-family dwelling and accessory structures in place while a new residence is constructed, with conditions limiting the time the older house may remain.
Petitioners said they must retain the existing house temporarily to care for farm animals and because the demolition is scheduled as part of the construction contract. Neighbors spoke in support. Staff and the DRC noted the site’s topography and recommended that petitioners obtain required permits for a new well and septic and consider recording an access and maintenance easement for the private driveway serving multiple homes.
The board moved to allow the existing house to remain until the new residence received occupancy and set a demolition window; after discussion members set a maximum of 90 days following occupancy for demolition of the old structure. A separate motion allowed existing accessory structures to remain in front of the new home. Members suggested a recorded property-maintenance agreement or easement be provided as a condition or contingency to address long‑term access and maintenance responsibilities for the private road.
The board recorded the approval and closed the hearings on those items.
