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Planning commission grants variance allowing backyard shed 1.5 ft from property line
Summary
A variance to permit a 1.5‑foot setback (where 5 ft is required) for an accessory shed in Pepperwood Crossing (Lot 9, 0.3 acres) was approved after the applicant agreed to Class A exterior materials for fire safety; neighbors expressed support for the appearance of the structure.
The Jefferson County Planning & Zoning Commission approved Variance 26‑0004 to allow an accessory shed to be located 1.5 feet from the south property line rather than the 5‑foot minimum required by county code.
Staff explained the request was a correction to a prior application where measurements used the rear exterior wall rather than the closest part of the structure; staff reviewed the four variance criteria and noted fire‑safety concerns raised by the building official. The applicant said the intent is to use Class A fiber‑cement (James Hardie) siding to reduce fire risk and avoid more costly firewall construction.
A neighbor in favor, Shannon Marley, told the commission the shed "beautifies our deep crack" and called it "adorable." Commissioners discussed lot size (0.3 acre), the non‑residential nature of the shed (storage only), and the lack of agency objections; one commissioner moved and seconded the variance approval with conditions requiring Class A exterior materials and findings of fact as described in the staff report. The motion carried with recorded affirmative votes.
