Board OKs third-yard pergola at 456 Bellflower Drive

The zoning board approved a variance to allow a third accessory structure — a 14-by-20 pergola — at 456 Bellflower Drive in Valparaiso, Jackson Township.

The permission, granted during a public hearing, applies to a 1.65-acre R Grove Residential District parcel where zoning normally limits certain accessory structures on lots smaller than 2 acres. Board members said the proposed pergola would sit on existing concrete in the backyard, meet required setbacks, and would not affect drainage.

The applicant sought the permit to add shade and a seating area adjacent to an existing pool. Staff confirmed the pergola would not include enclosed storage and that the combined footprint of accessory structures remained within applicable limits referenced by a board member as “state statute.” The board concluded the proposal met applicable setback and site requirements and approved the variance; the applicant was told to pick up the building permit the next day.

The action was routine and procedural: the board reviewed the staff recommendation, opened and closed the public hearing without public opposition, and moved to approve the requested variance.

Documents confirming the approval and the permit were available at the clerk’s desk following the meeting; no additional conditions or ongoing reporting requirements were specified in the record.