Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-17-12-125 — KENNETH EBERSOLE

Request: Variances in the R-2 zoning district as follows: 1) To allow a cumulative square footage of 900 sq. ft. of accessory structures in lieu of 500 sq. ft.; and 2) To allow the exterior and roof of the new 660 sq. ft. building to be metal in lieu of "materials commonly used throughout Orange County in single-family construction". (Note: The existing 600 sq. ft. detached garage was damaged by Hurricane Irma. The applicant wishes to replace it with a larger accessory building. The applicant has obtained letters of support from six (6) surrounding neighbors. To the west of the subject property is a commercial PD.)

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff explained that the property, which is zoned R-2, is nearly five times the size of a standard lot with that zoning. There is an existing shed on the site which is 600 sq. ft. of floor area, and an additional shed with 240 sq. ft. of floor area. The applicant wishes to demolish the larger structure which was damaged by recent storms and replace it with a building that is two ft. deeper to better accommodate their personal vehicles, adding another 60 sq. ft. of floor area. The applicant noted that they were in agreement with the staff recommendation and conditions. The BZA asked about the history of the larger structure with regard to past variances and permits. The applicant noted that the house was built in 1955, and shed was there when they purchased the home in 1977. There being no one present to speak for or against the request, the public hearing was closed. The BZA concluded that the need for the variance was not self imposed, and that the added square footage was minimal. A motion to recommend approval passed unanimously.