Mason County postpones hearing on proposed setback‑variance rules to June 9

Mason County commissioners voted May 12 to postpone a public hearing on proposed amendments that would tighten requirements for administrative variances that reduce property‑line setbacks, scheduling the hearing for June 9.

Kel Rowan, the county’s community development director, told the board the proposed changes would require applicants seeking an administrative variance to verify property lines by submitting a current survey, showing previously recorded survey markers, obtaining a neighbor’s signed affidavit agreeing to the line, or coordinating with the Washington State Department of Transportation or county public works where rights of way are involved. Rowan said staff discovered internal workflow issues between the permit assistance center and the planning department that need to be resolved before the hearing and requested the board move the date.

A commissioner moved to table and reschedule the hearing; a second was made and the motion passed by voice vote. The board said it would reopen the hearing for public comment on June 9.

The proposal would change how residents document lot lines when seeking administrative relief to minimum setbacks currently allowed under county practice. Rowan said staff plan a full‑staff work session on June 2 to address workflow items and be ready for a June 9 hearing and potential adoption.