JACKSON TWP — The township supervisors Thursday approved several changes to zoning ordinances that removed some restrictions including limiting the height of buildings.

Building height restrictions were removed in all zoning districts and in the planned residential development regulations.

Township solicitor Tim Bish said the change now allows the individual property owner to dictate the height of his building or home.

Before Thursday’s vote, the height restriction of new buildings built in Jackson was 40 feet.

“We’re trying to remove the handcuffs from property owners,” said Ron Lutz, supervisor chairman, adding that they hope the additional land development freedoms may help entice development in the township’s commercial districts.

Supervisor Jay Grinnell said the planning commission members discussed the height requirement and didn’t see a purpose for it.

He added that after a building gets to a certain height, the state building codes require that sprinkler systems be installed.

Bish pointed out that communication towers and windmills are still regulated under the zoning ordinance.

Another zoning change now allows the construction of retail sales and service establishments in the mixed commerce/office zoning district regardless of size.

The supervisors also removed the permit requirement for residents wanting to build a small structure, such as a shed, as long as the building is under 1,000 feet.