Fayston board hears request for shed within stream buffer; applicant says site minimizes runoff risk

The Town of Fayston Development Review Board on July 7, 2026 heard Application #4037 from Douglas and Heather Hoffman seeking conditional‑use approval to locate a storage shed within the 100‑foot stream buffer but outside the 50‑foot buffer. Mike Quenneville moved to find the application complete and the motion carried unanimously.

Douglas Hoffman told the board they "needed a shed; they found a good spot that is flat and compacted soil within 100’ of the stream." He said the site formerly held an A‑frame home and still contains a crumbling foundation. Hoffman described the proposed structure as a timber frame on pilings with a wood floor and said that, if approved, the existing structure would be removed. He stated that, based on door placement, most activity would be on the driveway side and that runoff would pitch away toward the road rather than toward the stream.

Board members pressed on alternatives and distances. Beth Eisenhower flagged that the planned shed appeared large—"on the large side like a garage"—and worried that equipment stored near the stream could cause leaching into the water. Jim Donkersloot asked how far the shed would be from the stream; Douglas replied that it is about 75 feet from the stream while the submitted plans show 63 feet. Ky Koitsch emphasized that the setback intent is to preserve water quality, protect wildlife and minimize erosion impacts.

Mike Quenneville moved to close the hearing; Beth Eisenhower seconded. The board voted all in favor and closed the hearing for deliberation. No approval or denial of the application was recorded in the July 7 public session.