Development News for Troy, Michigan

Sauna Heater Variance Request Postponed for Further Review

The board considered a variance request for a 6-foot high vinyl privacy fence at 5268 Hale, which was installed without proper UL certification for its wood-burning sauna heater. The applicant, Steve Dickerson, argued that the European CE certification met the intent of US safety standards, and that UL 875 and UL 1482 standards were not applicable to his specific appliance. The board ultimately postponed the decision to the July meeting to allow for further consideration, including an independent engineer's analysis of the standards and potential compromise. The applicant expressed frustration with the process and the costs involved. The existing structure was approved through the initial permit process, but the final inspection revealed the non-compliant heater.