Grandpa's $24,700 backyard coaster triggers zoning fight
A Pennsylvania grandfather spent years creating a private backyard amusement area for his grandchildren, complete with a go-kart track, waterslide and vintage carousel. His latest project, a restored roller coaster called The Tidal Wave, has run into local zoning rules because the township code does not specifically allow such a structure. A court has sent the dispute back to the zoning board.
In Mount Pleasant Township, Pennsylvania, a grandfather named Michael Chorba has built a private amusement area for his family using his backyard. The property features a go-kart track, a 105-foot waterslide, and a vintage carousel. However, the addition of a small roller coaster, called The Tidal Wave, has sparked a zoning dispute with local authorities.
The coaster, which was built as part of Chorba's passion for restoring vintage amusement rides, measures approximately 34 by 72 feet with a 18-foot tall control station. Chorba spent around $20,500 on the coaster itself, $2,500 on vinyl decals, and $1,700 on lighting.
Mount Pleasant Township's zoning rules do not explicitly permit such structures, leading to the current dispute. Ed Sanders, the township's zoning officer, explained that water slides are covered under the municipal planning code, but roller coasters are not specifically mentioned. Since the code lacks explicit mention of roller coasters, the township must determine whether Chorba's attraction can legally remain on the property.
The zoning dispute arose after years of Chorba building and restoring attractions on his property. He first worked on the go-kart track for 25 years, and later added a waterslide in 2021. Chorba's most recent addition was a 1957 carousel from the Allan Herschell Company, which he purchased for $28,000. After repainting and refurbishing the carousel, he sought a zoning permit for a large gazebo to house the attraction.
Once the gazebo was constructed, the carousel moved inside it, solidifying the roller coaster as the focal point of the zoning issue.
Ted Sanders, the zoning officer, noted that the local law prohibits structures not specifically permitted in the zoning rules. Because roller coasters were not explicitly mentioned, the township had to assess the legality of maintaining the attraction. Sanders had advised Chorba to apply for a zoning permit earlier in the year, which was subsequently rejected. Chorba was then encouraged to seek a variance, a request that was considered by the zoning board.
Despite the rejection of the variance request, Chorba maintains that the roller coaster is intended solely for his family and grandchildren, aiming to provide wholesome fun and avoid electronic entertainment. He expressed concern that removing the ride would devastate his youngest granddaughter, who considers it part of her play area. Chorba also rejected suggestions to convert his property into a petting zoo or another public attraction, emphasizing his desire to maintain the attraction as a private family playground.
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