City officials measured the rental unit at 26 feet, 4 inches, which is about a foot taller than the primary house and significantly above the restricted limit.

The owners suggested to fill soil around the structure to bring it to 25 feet and apply for a special exemption with the City Plan Commission.

On Thursday, the request was deemed “contrary to the spirit and purpose of the ordinance” and denied.

A city document stated “no unique circumstance exists to warrant the height exception for a structure that was built without permits.”

The structure must be rebuilt with proper permits or torn down, according to Wilke. The owners can also appeal the decision in front of the City Council.

Ald. Jan Michalski said several local residents alerted city officials of the structure.

“A number of people called and complained saying they wanted it gone,” Michalski said. “There were also people who spoke in its favor. It’s not that big of an eyesore in the neighborhood, but city rules are city rules.”

City alerts owners