Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-26-01-083 — Lucille Ghioto

Request: Variance in the R-2 zoning district to allow a structure to be located nearer the side street lot line than the required front yard of such abutting lot (18 ft. in lieu of 20 ft.)

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff described the proposal, including the location of the property, the site plan, and photos of the site. Staff provided an analysis of the six (6) criteria and the reasons for a recommendation for denial of the Variance. Staff noted that no comments were received in favor or in opposition to the request. The applicant was present and disagreed with staff's recommendation of denial. The applicant stated the subject property was gifted to Habitat for Humanity by Orange County Government with the purpose of constructing affordable single-family residences. The applicant went on to state how redesigning the layout would be problematic as the home is designed to be wheelchair accessible and they use pre-designed plans in order to provide an affordable product. The BZA stated there have been several other similar cases before the board in the recent past and the County encourages infill development of affordable housing and the request complies with all Variance criteria as the side street setback significantly reduces the buildable area of the lot imposing an undue hardship on the owner and other lots are developed in a similar manner. There was no one in attendance to speak in favor or in opposition to the request. The BZA recommended approval of Variance request by a 5-0 vote, with two (2) absent, subject to the three (3) conditions found in the staff report.

Conditions: 1) Development shall be in accordance with the site plan dated November 4, 2025, and elevations dated October 30, 2025, subject to the conditions of approval, and all applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations. Any proposed non-substantial deviations, changes, or modifications will be subject to the Zoning Manager's review and approval. Any proposed substantial deviations, changes, or modifications will be subject to a public hearing before the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) where the BZA makes a recommendation to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC).