Oak Grove board directs staff to pursue 5‑foot accessory‑structure setbacks

The board discussed potential amendments to the Unified Development Code’s accessory-structure setbacks and gave staff direction to pursue a revision that would reduce side and rear setbacks from the current 8 feet to 5 feet.

Matt summarized background: Oak Grove’s UDC established in 2003 sets accessory structures (sheds) at an 8‑foot minimum from rear and side property lines; neighboring towns range from 2.5 feet (Blue Springs) to 5 feet (several cities) and up to 10 feet in one example. Matt said accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are handled under different, more restrictive standards because they involve habitation. After board discussion about lot sizes, neighborhood expectations and practicality for yard access, the mayor and several aldermen indicated support for 5 feet and directed Matt to take the proposal to the planning and zoning commission for public hearing and recommendation.

The direction is a referral for code amendment review; no change to the code will take effect until the planning and zoning commission completes its review and the board adopts any ordinance.