Duplin County commissioners take no action on proposed cut to accessory-structure setbacks

A proposed text amendment to the Duplin County Unified Development Ordinance to reduce setbacks for accessory structures from 20 feet to 5 feet drew public opposition at a Jan. 6 public hearing and was left without board action.

The public hearing — opened by the board after a staff presentation — included a comment from Tony James, who said, “I would strongly encourage you to stick to the 20 feet that you've got,” arguing that a 5-foot setback could create problems between neighbors. Planner remarks to the board noted that bona fide agricultural uses are exempt and that accessory structures commonly include garages, carports and storage sheds.

Several commissioners voiced agreement with the public commenter, saying 20 feet provides a useful buffer. One commissioner described a prior case in which a neighbor built close to a property line and piled trash, describing it as a “nightmare” for a long-time resident; another commissioner said mowing and maintenance would be difficult if a structure were set just 5 feet from a property line.

Given the objections and questions about the rationale for the large change in setbacks, the chair asked for a board action; commissioners agreed to take no action and for staff to return the proposal to the planner and the planning board for additional review and context.

The record shows no formal vote to adopt the amendment; the item remains at staff/planning-board stage for further consideration.