Wildomar Amends Zoning Ordinance To Give Greater Flexibility To Rural Residential Property Owners

Wildomar residents who want to build a shed, garage, barn or other outbuilding on their properties got some flexibility from the city Wednesday night.

In a 5-0 vote, City Council amended the Wildomar Zoning Ordinance to allow a shorter setback when placing outbuildings on properties. The amendment changes the minimum required 20-foot backyard setback for detached accessory buildings in rural residential zoning to 10 feet.

According to Wildomar Planning Director Matthew Bassi, accessory buildings are defined as non-inhabitable structures.

Required front yard and side yard setbacks did not change under the amendment. They are still 20 feet and 5 -10 feet, respectively.

The amendment only applies to new construction.

Wildomar resident Gary Andre asked City Council to consider maintaining the required 20-foot setback on lots over a half acre because, he argued, those property owners have more room and don't need to build so close to their neighbors.

“I think the 20-foot setback is good for the larger lots,” Andre said.

City Councilwoman Bridgette Moore sided with Andre, but other council members suggested that odd-shaped lot configurations make it difficult for some property owners to adhere to the required 20-foot setback.

Councilman Tim Walker also urged that the shorter setback gives greater flexibility to Wildomar horse owners who build barns on their properties.

He said the city should be mindful of its horse owners who contribute to Wildomar’s rural identity and aesthetic.