Planning Commission recommends ordinance to allow accessory structures on lots separated by park access strips

The Lake Isabella Planning Commission voted unanimously on July 14 to recommend Proposed Ordinance 2026-03 to the Village Council. The ordinance would allow two platted lots separated only by a recorded access strip that serves a private park, outlot or common area to be treated as a single zoning site when the owners record a deed restriction. That change would permit a principal structure on one lot and an accessory structure on the adjoining lot, provided all other zoning requirements are met.

Interim Village Manager Jessica Manley explained the amendment is intended to align ordinance language with existing provisions that allow accessory structures across public road rights-of-way while ensuring the ownership of the access strip itself remains unchanged. Staff said legal language had been included to prevent ownership claims through maintenance or use.

Commissioners discussed requiring applicants to verify property corner monuments during site plan review to avoid future disputes about lot lines; the Commission supported adding that verification requirement as part of site-plan review for properties using the provision. During the public hearing, resident Ken Schutt asked who would be responsible for mowing the access easement; staff told the Commission the Property Owners Association would retain maintenance responsibility. Resident John Dauffenbach urged clear boundary identification in future site plans.

Commissioner Benzinger moved, Commissioner Wickert seconded approval of a recommendation to the Village Council. The voice vote was 6-0-0 in favor. The item will be forwarded to Council for consideration.