Planning Commission recommends IUP allowing 4,320-sf accessory building on 35-acre Shafer Township parcel

The Chisago County Planning Commission recommended approval of an Interim Use Permit (IUP) for property owners Zachary Gabiou and Kelly Sederstrom that allows a single accessory structure without a principal use structure on a 35.18± acre parcel in the Agricultural (AG) District. Land Services Coordinator Beth Gervais told the commission the proposed building would be "54' X 80' (4,320 sf)" and used for hobby farming and storage of personal equipment and vehicles. The Shafer Town Board recommended approval and staff presented draft findings and conditions for the commission to consider.

During the public hearing the applicants offered no additional information. Commissioners pressed staff on future site development: Gervais said the applicants indicated they may build a dwelling someday, but that the IUP would not require further development and would expire if a principal use structure were later constructed. The commission adopted Resolution No. PC2026-0201 by motion of Chris DuBose, seconded by Eric Leivian, authorizing approval of the IUP with conditions — including verification of septic site locations, a requirement to contact the County Highway Department about access permit needs, prohibition on sanitary facilities and overnight occupancy in the accessory structure until a principal dwelling is built, and annual certification to remain in effect — and authorized staff to approve minor relocations of the structure as needed. The motion passed 7-0.