A. Definitions: An "accessory structure", whereas the use of which is incidental to the principal use of another structure on the same premises. This definition includes the following accessory structures and other similar structures and uses normally associated with a residential use of property:
Arbors and covered areas. Permanent, freestanding structures which are covered and may include walls or latticework. All arbors require a building permit.
Barbecues and outdoor fireplaces (permanent). For purposes of this title, barbecues and outdoor fireplaces are permanent structures where cooking and recreation may occur which utilize a heated fire source. A building permit and all applicable electric, plumbing, and utility permits are required. Building permits are not required for nonpermanent or movable structures which do not require connections to utilities.
Carport. An open sided shelter used to cover vehicles, equipment, or other materials. Carports may be temporary or permanent and must meet similar setback requirements as garages. The sides may not be fully enclosed. A building permit is required.
Deck. Any structure that serves as a raised horizontal platform or floor constructed of wood or other materials and adjoins a house. Decks may or may not have a roof structure. The minimum front yard setback allowed for front decks shall be fifteen feet (15') with a maximum size of two hundred fifty (250) square feet. The maximum extension into the front yard shall be determined by the front yard setback. If deck is roofed or enclosed, the setbacks of the primary structure must be met.
Garages. A building or indoor space which is used to park and store vehicles. Other uses for garages may be, but are not limited to, storage, workshops, studios or similar building. All garages require a building permit.
Gazebos. A freestanding structure with a roof that is usually open on the sides. All gazebos require a building permit.
Greenhouse. A structure enclosed by glass, plastic, or other material which is used for the cultivation or protection of plants. Greenhouses do not require a building permit but may require other permits such as electrical, plumbing, etc.
Patio. A recreation area that adjoins a dwelling, is paved or covered with wood, tile or other material, and is adapted especially to outdoor dining. All patios require a building permit.
Porch. A covered area adjoining an entrance to a building. Porches may have attached or separate roofs from the primary structure. Porches require a building permit.
Storage/utility shed. A structure built, manufactured or formed for storage or shelter. Any shed which requires a utility connection also requires a building permit and necessary permits for electric, utility, or other. All sheds require a building permit.
Swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. Any permanent structure which uses water or steam for recreation purposes and requires a utility connection to water, electricity, gas, or any other utility. A building permit is required.
Water fountain. For purposes of this title, a water fountain is any permanent, outdoor structure which requires plumbing and artificially creates a jet or stream of water, often incorporating figures, basins, etc. A building permit is required if the fountain is connected to water, gas, electric or other utility infrastructure.
Workshop. A room, area or small building where manual or light industrial, hobby or recreational work is done. Workshops require a building permit.
Other similar structures.
The accessory structure definition does not include the following:
Basketball hoops (permanent or movable).
Chimneys.
Mechanical equipment (e.g., air conditioning units).
Play equipment (permanent or movable). (Ord. 12-11, 11-5-2012; amd. Ord. 16-07, 12-19-2016; Ord. 17-07, 12-18-2017; Ord. 21-03, 5-3-2021)
B. Requirements For All Accessory Structures:
1. Relationship To Primary Use: An accessory use and/or structure shall be incidental to the primary residential use of the site, and shall not alter the character of the primary use.
2. Appropriate Permits: Property owners must obtain the appropriate permits as outlined in this title prior to construction or installation of any accessory structure.
3. Timing Of Installation: An accessory structure shall only be constructed concurrent with or after the construction of the primary structure on the same site except that construction trailers may be placed on a site only for the duration of construction.
4. Attached To Principal Building: When an accessory structure is attached to a principal building by a breezeway, roofed passage or similar structure, or is otherwise located within ten feet (10') or less of the principal building it must meet the setback requirements of the principal building. (Ord. 15-12, 8-17-2015)
5. Location On The Site: Except as provided by this title, no accessory structure shall occupy a required front yard setback, or project beyond the front building line of the primary structure on the site. Also, no accessory structure will be located in public right-of-way or within a public easement. A private street shall be considered the same as a public street for purposes of this requirement. (Ord. 15-12, 8-17-2015; amd. Ord. 17-07, 12-18-2017)
C. Side And Rear Yard Setbacks: All accessory structures, except for accessory structures for residential uses, shall meet the side and rear yard setback requirements of the principal structure. Accessory structures for residential uses shall be set back from the side and rear property line as follows:
1. If the structure is eighteen inches (18") or less in height, no setback from the side and rear property line is required;
2. If the structure is greater than eighteen inches (18"), a five foot (5') setback from the side and rear property line is required, however, an uncovered deck may have a two foot (2') setback from the side and rear property line; (Ord. 15-12, 8-17-2015)
3. No accessory structure greater than eighteen inches (18") in height shall have less than a two foot (2') setback from the side or rear property line. (Ord. 12-11, 11-5-2012; amd. Ord. 17-07, 12-18-2017)
D. Lot Coverage: For all single-family and two-family dwellings, the total sum area of all detached accessory structures that have a roof, including all detached garages and sheds, shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total lot area. (Ord. 17-07, 12-18-2017)