By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer

PLOVER – Amendments to current village zoning codes may take place this year. The changes would alter language in the village’s code, mainly concerning accessory structure setbacks. The goal of the possible amendments is to give residents more options when placing accessory structures on a parcel.

“We’ve been going through some of our zoning codes to essentially try to create a zoning code that allows people to utilize their property in a way that is more advantageous to them, but protects the public interest,” said Plover Community Development Administrator Ryan Kernosky.

Part of the amended language would give corner lot owners more options when installing an accessory structure.

“If you are on a corner lot and want to put up an accessory structure, you are really limited in what you can do,” Kernosky said. “The accessory structure needs to meet the minimum street setback for that side street. So, anywhere from 25 to 35 feet, and so, given that, if you are on a corner and have to meet that, you are really running into challenges with practical uses of the property.”

If the changes are approved, property owners on corner lots would be able to install accessory structures in the side street yard of their parcel with a minimum setback of 20 feet from the road right-of-way. Officials also discussed reducing general accessory building setbacks for all properties — meaning structures greater than 16 feet in width or length would require minimum side yard setbacks of 6 feet and rear yard setbacks of 10 feet.

Commission members reviewed the proposed amendments at the Plover Plan Commission meeting on June 3. The changes are intended to give property owners more flexibility with the available space on their land. Village leaders have not yet pursued formal action on the amendments.

Follow the Portage County Gazette for updates.