Strict New Manteno Building Code Affects What Residents Can Build On Their Property

At their Monday, March 6, meeting, the Manteno Village Board revised the building code, which will restrict what residents can build in their back yards. Under the new code, several things now will be violations, including tree houses and green houses.

The code also restricts sheds to certain requirements. Back yard or side yard sheds are referred to as Accessory Buildings and will be subject to being issued a permit by the village before construction. The code for sheds reads in part:

1. No accessory building shall be more than two percent (2%) of the total lot square footage. However, in no event shall an accessory shed exceed three hundred fifty (350) square feet regardless of the total lot square footage. For accessory buildings larger than three hundred fifty (350) square feet, see requirements for garages.

2. The maximum height of the walls for any accessory building shall be eight feet (8′). “Walls” shall mean the exterior face of the accessory building as measured from ground level to the roof.

3. No accessory building shall exceed twelve feet (12′) in height measured from ground level. All accessory buildings must be placed behind the primary structure (back yard) or in the case of a corner lot, placement in the side yard shall be permitted. No accessory building shall be located closer than five feet (5′) from any property line. Accessory buildings shall not be permitted in any easement or placed at a location so as to impede the drainage of a neighboring property.

Notwithstanding the above, prefabricated sheds not constructed or placed on a concrete slab shall be allowed to be placed in a public utility easement not considered an overland drainage easement, provided the owner completes the easement waiver provided by the building department. The easement waiver acknowledges owner notification that in the event the shed is placed in a public utility easement, the owner shall assume all costs associated with the removal or location modification by any utility company for access to the easement. The village shall not be held liable for any subsequent damages to said shed or its contents by permitting the shed to be placed in the easement.

The owner shall assume the responsibility to notify all utility companies of the intent to place a shed in a public utility easement.

(F) Specific prohibitions:

1. No fabric, temporary, tent-style sheds/structures shall be permitted.

2. No shipping containers of any size shall be permitted without the approval of the Board of Trustees.

3. Accessory office sheds/buildings are probibited.

4. A treehouse shall constitute an accessory building and shall not be permitted.

5. A greenhouse shall constitute an accesseory building and shall not be permitted.