After-the-fact setback variance approved for accessory building; applicant says structure predates ownership

The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals on June 11 approved an after-the-fact variance request for a residential accessory building in the R-1 rural residential district. Staff opened the case (26-34) and read the application seeking reduced side-yard setback relief for an existing structure.

The applicant (the presenter) told the board the building has been at the property for about 50 years and that they bought the house less than a year ago: “So we bought the house, less than a year ago. The building was there, I believe, almost 50 years,” the presenter said, adding that they did not build the structure and only discovered permit issues when applying to add a second story and a pool.

Why it matters: The applicant told the board the structure was not permitted and represents an encroachment. The owner said planned improvements — converting a screened room and formalizing a pool-house function — will benefit the property and neighborhood. Staff and the board asked clarifying questions to confirm which structure on the parcel was at issue and whether the improvements require separate permits.

Board action and next steps: A board member moved approval; a second was recorded and staff advised there was no public opposition. The board granted the requested variance (motion carried). The director noted standard permitting and inspection conditions will still apply before future construction.

The board did not record a detailed roll-call tally in the hearing record available in the transcript; formal conditions and next steps will be reflected in the permit and county files.