Plumbing and kitchens are considerations in Metchosin’s hard look at accessory buildings.
The municipal council, during committee meeting, took another look at its regulations for accessory buildings and discussed areas including set backs, size, height and conversions.
Council members discussed whether to allow plumbing and kitchen facilities in accessory buildings.
Coun. Moralea Milne said she has concerns over adding plumbing as it’s a slippery slope to converting buildings for residential accommodations.
“I think it’s fair to have a
toilet,” said Mayor John Ranns.
“The older I get the closer I want to get to a toilet,” added Coun. Larry Tremblay.
Committee agreed toilets and sinks should be allowed, but recommended prohibiting showers and bathtubs.
Other issues for conversions included whether or not to allow kitchens and food storage. Coun. Jo Mitchell shared a bylaw from Central Saanich that doesn’t allow either in its accessory buildings.
While cooking facilities could be deemed a residential amenity, Ranns explained, people who make and sell jam may want to use an accessory building for business purposes.
Mitchell also threw setbacks and height of buildings into the conversation, suggesting both block the sun from homes and gardens.
“What if someone planted a Garry oak tree that grew to 60 feet?” countered Coun. Bob Gramigna.
“That wouldn’t be in my lifetime,” Mitchell replied.
Milne questioned why accessory buildings could stand as tall at 10.5 metres, but Gramigna, chair of the committee, explained allowing residents to build up could reduce the buildings’ footprint.
During the meeting, council and the public noted a lack of public interest. Last April council held an informative meeting on accessory buildings; about two dozen residents attended.