Planning commission recommends cutting accessory-structure setbacks from 8 to 5 feet

On Aug. 18, 2026, the Oak Grove Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend that the Board of Aldermen approve an amendment to the Unified Development Code reducing minimum rear and side setbacks for accessory structures from eight feet to five feet.

City staff told the commission the change responds to a July 20 direction from the Board of Aldermen and is intended to align Oak Grove with peer cities. “Aligning our accessory use setback standards more closely with our peer cities promotes efficient land use while maintaining appropriate development standards,” a staff member said during the report. Staff pointed to comparative standards in neighboring jurisdictions: Blue Springs (2.5 feet), several cities at five feet, Oak Grove currently at eight feet, and some peers at 10 feet.

The draft ordinance replaces the current eight‑foot rear and side setbacks with five feet for accessory structures, exempts fences and walls from the minimum setback, and adds a cross‑reference to the UDC non‑residential design standards (section 405.260) so commercial accessory buildings remain subject to the appropriate design provisions. Staff recommended the revision as consistent with the UDC’s intent to reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers.

A commissioner moved to recommend approval to the Board of Aldermen; the motion carried in voice vote and the chair announced the motion passed. The commission did not amend the draft ordinance on the floor. The Board of Aldermen will consider the ordinance in a future meeting.