I am a full-time resident in HR-1 & have a few comments regarding Accessory Structures ("AS"). While AS are not contemplated for change in the current proposal, the existing LMC references are somewhat confusing. There are 2 diagrams that deal w/AS in Attachment 1, just after lines 741 & 816. In each diagram, the size of the Main Building is substantially different. In the first diagram, the Main Building covers substantially more of the building pad than in the second diagram. Is this because the AS in the second diagram is utilizing more of the pad and is in the sideyard? The Code does not provide any guidance.
This seems like the right time to address AS's; like many people, I have been working from home continuously since the Covid lockdown. At one point I had 8 adults living & working in my 3BR house; I increased computer bandwith to handle their increased workload but had fewer options for increased physical space. But now more than ever, the LMC needs to accomodate work-from-home scenarios; since a barn or garage is an allowable AS, arguably two structures that are readily electrified & heated - I’d like to clarify that:
• "personal office space" is an allowable use for an AS; this needs to be wordsmithed carefully since HR-1 is zoned residential and no one wants office buildings next to their house.
• the sqft of an AS in a setback is independent of the Main Building Maximum footprint; this would be consistent with the implications of the 1st diagram in the Code;
• the maximum footprint for an AS in a rear yard setback is calculated as 50% of the minimum rear yard setback; adding the word “minimum”
• the 18 ft is measured in the same manner as the 35 ft rule in HR-1, i.e., “lowest finish floor plane...supports the ceiling joists or roof rafters.” I’d add that the maximum height above final grade is 12ft. (minimize neighbor issues re light & views)
Thanks–
Sean Kelleher
409 Echo Spur