New residential zoning changes and definitions were discussed at this week’s Washington City Council meeting and the first reading amending the code was approved. The changes recommended by the Planning and Zoning board are in regards to accessory buildings, meaning a building’s use is “incidental and subordinate to the main use and is located on the same lot” as a home.

Steve Donnolly, building and zoning official for Washington, explains the intent is to maintain the residential areas without being to restrictive, such as limiting types of materials allowed. The change is to show that a residence should be the largest structure on a residential lot, or equal to any accessory buildings in size.

The council will hold second and third readings for the ordinance amendment.