ZBA accepts fence, garage and orchard-fence applications; site visits and hearings scheduled

At its May 20 meeting the Rhinebeck Zoning Board of Appeals accepted four new applications and set the near-term process for each.

Michael Broad (Case 1099) said he installed a wood fence on a corner property without realizing it required a permit. He told the board the finished side of the fence currently faces inward and that some portions exceed the six-foot limit that applies to rear yards; he said neighbors submitted three letters of support and that he will add a finished facing to the outward side. The ZBA accepted the application as complete, requested additional photographs, and set a public hearing for June 17, 2026; the board will perform a site inspection (typically on a Saturday) before ruling.

Charles Franny (Case 1100) requested four area variances to build a 24-by-30, 1½-story detached garage. The board discussed limited buildable locations because of steep topography, existing easements, aggregate accessory floor-area limits (transcript cited a 1,500 sq ft threshold and the application’s proposed aggregate figure), and a proposed generator (board members referenced a local code amendment that exempts emergency generators under a certain size but may still count toward aggregate area). The board accepted the application and set a June 17 public hearing; the applicant will provide renderings showing the garage in context.

Primrose / Sean Kosber LLC (Case 1102) presented an application for an 8-foot orchard-protection fence. The applicant said a prior DEC wetland delineation remains accurate; the application was accepted and set for a June 17 public hearing and referral to the planning board where appropriate.

Administrative notes: the board confirmed multiple site visits will occur before deliberation on these matters and reminded applicants to provide requested photos and renderings. The ZBA also noted routine classification under SEQR for several items (617.5 C12 and 617.5 C37 were cited in the discussion) and that planning-board input may be required depending on the application.

Next steps: Applicants to provide additional renderings and photos; staff to mail hearing notices to abutters and schedule site visits prior to public hearings on June 17, 2026; Brookme’s appeal scheduled for July 15, 2026.