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ZBA approves variance to keep oversized shed but bars metal siding
Summary
The Tuscaloosa Zoning Board granted a variance allowing a 400‑sq‑ft shed to remain closer to the street than the house at 4612 Bass Drive but denied permitting metal siding on structures greater than 120 sq ft; the owner agreed to re‑clad the building.
The Tuscaloosa Zoning Board of Adjustments on July 27 approved a variance allowing a 400‑square‑foot accessory structure to remain closer to the street than the principal structure at 4612 Bass Drive, but the board denied the request to permit metal cladding on a structure that exceeds 120 square feet.
Petitioner Kevin Fikes told the board he bought the building from a business and did not know it required a permit when it was installed in 2022. "I'm respectfully asking the board to approve my variance request that I may keep the existing structure on my property," he said, adding that his property’s topography and tight side yards leave no practical place to relocate the shed.
City staff said the shed exceeds 120 square feet and is clad in metal, which the zoning code prohibits for accessory structures of that size, and staff noted the structure was placed without a permit. Board members said they dislike metal structures in front yards but found a hardship based on lot topography and access. Mary Catherine Holt said she could support approval if the shed is re‑clad to match the principal dwelling and recommended a stipulation addressing materials on a future change of ownership.
The board voted to approve the variance allowing the shed to remain closer to the street while denying the request to allow metal siding on a structure over 120 square feet; staff will work with the petitioner on acceptable exterior materials.
What happens next: The petitioner must coordinate with city staff on approved cladding materials; the board noted that licensing or a future change in ownership could trigger re‑inspection or additional conditions.
