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ZBA approves multiple lakefront setbacks for Hatchery Rd house, 5-2
Summary
Modern Craft Homes won approval May 19 for several variances to build a modest home on a vacant Hatchery Rd lot; the board voted 5-2 after discussing porch and garage placement that affect lake sightlines.
On May 19, 2026, the Waterford Township Zoning Board of Appeals approved multiple setback variances for a proposed house on a vacant Hatchery Road lot, allowing the structure, roof overhangs, screened porch and deck to sit closer to the lake and roadside than current ordinance setbacks permit.
Dave Bickes of Modern Craft Homes told the board the proposed 1,400-square-foot home would not intrude on neighbors’ sightlines to the lake and that garages to either side are closer to the road than the proposed home. “We are not protruding into anyone’s site lines to the lake,” Bickes said; he added the home is intended to be modest and that he plans to live in it personally.
Board members focused discussion on the screened porch, which has different setback rules than an uncovered deck and therefore more visual impact. Board Member Sue Camilleri suggested reducing the garage from three-car to two-car to move the house further from the lakeside; Bickes said owners typically prefer three-car garages for storage at lake properties. Staff noted that the proposed house’s location is generally between neighboring houses’ front setbacks.
After questions and discussion, the board approved the requested variances by roll call vote, 5-2, with Camilleri and Art Frasca voting no. The board found practical difficulties existed and concluded the proposal would fit the character of nearby properties.
Why it matters: The decision permits a new house footprint that will sit closer to the lakefront than the ordinance usually allows and may set an example for how lakefront rebuilds are treated when neighboring lots have similar encroachments.
What’s next: The applicant may proceed to building permit review and must comply with any conditions set by staff and the township’s permit process.
