Planning Board adopts smaller setbacks and adds 'age of majority' to residence definition

At its Jan. 13 working meeting, the Washington Planning Board approved adjustments to proposed Land Use Ordinance setback distances and clarified the residence definition for trusts, moves the board said are intended to balance property-owner flexibility with community standards.

After considering public comments and internal feedback, member Piatt said reducing setbacks would make it easier for owners to avoid bringing routine projects before the Zoning Board of Adjustment. The board debated several options for front, side and rear setbacks; Martin moved to set the standards at 30 feet for front, 20 feet for side and 25 feet for rear, Caffrey seconded, and the motion carried with a unanimous recorded vote among those voting.

The board also addressed the residence definition for trusts, with members expressing concern about absent owners and minor beneficiaries. Caffrey proposed adding the phrase "age of majority" to the trust-residence language; Martin moved to add that language, Schwartz seconded, and all members voted in favor.

Schwartz asked that temporary structures meet setback and coverage limits; members discussed whether the 180-day temporary allowance should be shortened but ultimately kept the period at 180 days, noting that structures in place longer would need to meet permanent requirements. Board members agreed to forward proposed building-permit language to the Town Attorney for review prior to the LUO hearing.

The Planning Board scheduled the LUO hearing for Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 at 6:30 PM in Town Hall; the board adjourned the working meeting at 8:15 PM.