Board approves backyard storage structure with screening and paint conditions

At the Cherokee County appeals board meeting, Connor Butler asked for variances to build an accessory structure larger than 50% of the primary dwelling and to allow metal siding rather than materials complementary to the house. Staff noted the house is 3,172 square feet and the proposed accessory building is about 1,800 square feet (approximately 56% of the primary), and that metal cladding alone would not meet design standards.

Butler told the board the structure is for covered storage of vehicles and a boat and that a roof and partial framing were already in place. The board approved both variances by a unanimous vote conditioned on year-round visual screening along the east, west and rear property lines and a requirement that the structure be painted to match the house. "Motion to approve both variances with conditions that year-round visual screening is planted ... and that the structure is painted to match the house" was recorded by the chair. The board said the conditions aim to balance property-owner needs with neighborhood character and visibility concerns.