New Lenox Homeowner Granted Variance for 4,000-Square-Foot Accessory Space

Will County Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting | December 16, 2025

Article Summary: A New Lenox homeowner received approval to build a large pole barn that exceeds the county’s size limits for accessory structures by more than double. The Planning and Zoning Commission granted the variance after the applicant presented a petition of support from all adjacent neighbors.

Will County PZC Key Points:

• The Request: The applicant sought to increase the maximum accessory building area from the allowed 1,500 square feet to 4,049 square feet.

• The Project: Construction of a 40-foot by 64-foot detached pole barn with a lean-to for personal storage and a workshop.

• Staff Recommendation: County staff recommended denial, citing that the size was a “personal preference” rather than a hardship caused by the land.

• Outcome: The commission voted 4-0 to approve the variance.

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, approved a significant variance for a property in New Lenox Township, allowing a homeowner to construct a large pole barn for personal use.

Applicant Cammron Siemienas, of 1237 Green Street, requested a variance to increase the maximum allowable accessory building area from 1,500 square feet to 4,049 square feet. The property, zoned R-3, already contains an attached garage, a gazebo, and a garden shed. The new structure will be a detached garage used for personal storage and a hobby workshop.

County staff had recommended denial of the request. In the staff report, it was noted that the plight of the owner was not due to unique circumstances of the land, but rather a desire for a structure that exceeds district limits.

However, Siemienas argued that the structure would fit the character of the neighborhood, where large outbuildings are common.

“The large outbuildings throughout my neighborhood are the main reason I purchased my home here… finally, after years of saving and careful planning, I’m ready to turn this dream into a reality,” Siemienas said.

Critically, Siemienas presented a signed petition from all six abutting neighbors supporting the project.

“I’ve obtained a signed petition from all six adjacent neighbors, all of whom are in support of this project with no objections,” he told the commission.

Commissioner John Kiefner noted that similar requests had been denied recently when neighbors objected, but the lack of opposition here was key.

“I would be inclined to vote against you, especially given staff’s recommendation for denial, but I think you’re in better shape since you don’t have any neighbors complaining here,” Kiefner said.

The commission approved the variance with a 4-0 vote.