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January 2025 Millcreek Together Code Update I 18.59 Accessory Structures Summary Sheet Chapter 18.59 Accessory Structures Summary A. Purpose. The purpose of this Chapter is to provide allowance for accessory uses and structures in Millcreek in an orderly way that minimizes impact. This Chapter applies to R-1, R-2, R-4, AG, FRE, MH/TH, MD, MD-3, and RM zones in Millcreek and is an additional development standard to those of the governing zoning district. B. What Changed. o 60% of the footprint of the primary structure or 600 sf, whichever is greater rule is removed. o The minimum setback for an accessory building is 10 feet from the abutting side yard rule is removed in the RM and other specific zones. o Alignment with current accessory structure design standards. o 6-foot separation from primary building to accessory structure changed from 10’ feet. o Moving the accessory structure rules to its own chapter that will apply to all of the above zoning designations. o Design standards will be applied to accessory buildings in the higher density zones in the same way they are for lower density residential zones. o AG zones will be held to the same standards as the low-density residential zones listed above as well. C. What Remained the Same. o All other rules within the accessory building code will remain the same. o There is no change being proposed to setbacks, height rules, building location, or design standards for accessory structures in the R-1, R-2, or R-4 zones. (With the exception of the minimum setback for an accessory building abutting side yard). D. Rationale for Changes. Current regulations for accessory buildings prevent modest homes with smaller building footprints to build. Changing lot coverage requirements allows for increased flexibility for property owners and helps retain Millcreek homeowners. Staff is responding to residents’ feedback that additional flexibility and simplification of the code is needed. Much of the current language can be traced back to language in the 1953 code. Aligning these rules will ensures consistency across accessory building requirements.