Workshop Scheduled to Include Public in Discussion of Zoning Regulations

A proposal to regulate additions or construction of single-family houses in Farmington’s established neighborhoods is being considered by the Town Plan and Zoning Commission. The commission has invited the public to learn more and comment on the proposal at a May 17 workshop.

The commission began looking at the issue late last year at the request of a few residents concerned about mcmansions creeping into town, Town Planner Jeffery Ollendorf said. Though Farmington has had less of the disproportionate development other towns have experienced, the issue was raised after one resident came before the zoning commission asking to expand a home in a way that was not in keeping with the character of the neighborhood.

According to a draft of the proposed regulation, if an owner’s proposal does not meet the requirements, he or she may file an application for a special permit, which would be considered by the commission.

A draft of the regulation describes its purpose saying, “Left uncontrolled, the development of larger out of scale houses in these areas will seriously affect or destroy the sense of place of an established neighborhood. This regulation seeks to control the size, spacing and height of principle structures in residential zones within existing building lines so as to preserve some level of uniformity and architectural compatibility.”

The workshop will be held May 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. For more information, contact Jeffrey Ollendorf, Town Planner at 860-675-2325.