Would a pottery kiln (outside) be okay in this neighborhood?

[Jen & Ernst]

My husband and I are relocating to Johnson City. I'll be working at ETSU and he's a studio potter. He works in high-fire stoneware and porcelain and would have a backyard kiln built of brick and a propane tank, both of which we will happily disguise with a tasteful shelter if needed. He would not have a shop on the premises. We both like old houses and neighborhoods and the Tree Streets seem like a fit.

It looks like JC residential zoning allows for artists' studios provided that "the equipment used by the business and the operation of the business shall not create any vibrations, heat, glare, dust, odors, or smoke discernable at the property lines." We take that to mean that if the neighbors don't fuss, your activities are probably okay. There are no vibrations, dust, or odors. Heat would be intensely local/contained and smoke is less than the output of a wood stove, but if it's dark out, the kiln glows when it gets going and flame is visible at the chimney. A firing takes 8-12 hours, probably not more than 2x/month. The kiln is never left unattended.

Obviously, we would ask potential immediate neighbors their opinion before we try to buy anything. Right now we're just trying to get a feel for whether or not we should keep the Tree Streets on our list.

Thanks for any input!

[sarah orr]

I personally would be thrilled to have you as a neighbor..I have a gas stove in my Kitchen that is unattended frequently..   ;-)

[Kathy Serago]

I really don't think it would be a problem.  Don Davis lives in the neighborhood - he is a professor at ETSU in ceramics.  You could probably contact him with any questions.

[Jen & Ernst]

I think my husband is already planning to contact him - didn't know he lived in the neighborhood, though. Thanks!

[harrison farthing]

Buy my house at 411 West Maple!  The neighbors are cool on all sides.

 

Harry Farthing