Rules approved for accessory structure size

by Laura Bednar

Feb. 10 regular township trustees meeting

Sagamore Hills trustees approved new rules for accessory structures proposed by the township zoning commission with one change. 

Properties three-fourths of an acre and smaller can have an accessory building up to 450 square feet. Parcels more than 2 acres can have an accessory structure up to 1,400 square feet. Two structures are allowed per parcel if the total square footage does not exceed the size guidelines. 

The proposed structure size for parcels three-fourths of an acre up to and including 2 acres was 900 square feet, which all trustees said was too small. Trustee Paul Schweikert said it was not enough room for boats, kayaks and RVs and leaving those items outside “junks up” the yard.

Trustees David DePasquale and John Zaccardelli said they received calls from residents over the years that wanted larger structures. “When residents come to us we have to represent them,” said Zaccardelli.

After discussion, trustees changed the size limitations of accessory structures for parcels three-fourths of an acre up to and including 2 acres to 1,200 square feet. All the zoning changes take effect after 30 days. 

Zaccardelli said he is exploring the possibility of adding e-commerce to the township website for residents to fill out park reservations, complete zoning permits and make online payments.Trustees unanimously appointed Sagamore resident Linda Tompot to fill the vacancy left by Caroline Walske on the North Hills Water District Board.