Zoners wary of shedding shed permits

A plan to allow small sheds to be built without a permit sparked a lengthy debate among planning and zoning commissioners.

The proposal to amend the town zoning regulations stems from changes made to state building codes, which became effective on Feb. 28 and exempts several small structures, including sheds under 200 square feet and free-standing decks, from needing a building permits for one and two structures on a single property.

In order to establish consistency with these recent code changes, this amendment expands the list in the zoning regulations for minor accessory structures that are also to be exempted from the need of a zoning permit, reads the proposed amendment.

Minor accessory structures previously included walls and fences, as well as dog houses and bird baths.

Richard Baldelli, the towns zoning enforcement officer, voiced concern in a March 5 letter to Town Planner Betty Brosius highlighting that several of the exempt items do require a zoning permit in Ridgefield making the towns regulations out of step with the states.

He suggested that the town exempt some structures from requiring a permit, including:

One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouse and similar uses, provided the floor area does not exceed 200 square feet;

Prefabricated swimming pools that are equal to or less than 24 inches deep;

Swings, non-habitable tree houses and other playground equipment;

Decks not exceeding 200 square feet that are more than 30 inches high and are not attached to a dwelling.

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Zoners wary of shedding shed permits