Tuesday, AUGUST 12, 2025 |
Photo – Saratoga Town Hall – Bigfoot99 file photo
Saratoga officials plan to ease building code restrictions.
On August 5th, the Saratoga Town Council held a public hearing for Ordinance 887. Public Works Director Emery Penner explained that the ordinance changes how the town regulates accessory buildings, such as sheds and detached garages. Penner said the new rules will reduce the need for residents to seek a variance, or an official exception to specific zoning regulations.
Penner explained that Saratoga’s existing building regulations were taken directly from a national database and are better suited to a different type of community. By amending the codes, Penner said he hopes to help residents make better use of their property while preserving the town’s character.
Penner said the Saratoga Planning Commission took public comment into consideration when designing the new regulations. The Public Works Director said Ordinance 887 will give residents greater flexibility in choosing where to build accessory structures. To maintain a cohesive appearance throughout the town, Penner said front yard regulations will remain unchanged.
Penner added that homes built prior to 1980, before the current zoning regulations were established, will be allowed additional leeway for accessory buildings.
The Public Works Director said Ordinance 887 does not restrict how residents may use their properties. Instead, it aims to reduce the need for variances and bring the entire town into compliance with the new zoning regulations.
Mayor Chuck Davis said his administration is working to update all of Saratoga’s outdated regulations while preserving its core identity.
Ordinance 887 was passed by the Saratoga Town Council on first reading. Like all ordinance amendments, it must be read and approved at three separate public hearings.
A copy of Ordinance 887 can be found online at Proposed Planning Ordinance 25-887 | Saratoga, WY
