Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-26-01-084 — Omar Sanchez

Request: Variances in the R-1A zoning district to allow a new residence as follows: 1) A 55.2 ft. lot width in lieu of 75 ft. 2) A rear setback of 25.88 ft. in lieu of 30 ft.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff presented the proposal, outlining the property¿s location, site plan, and site photographs. Staff reviewed the six required criteria and explained the reasons for recommending approval of Variance Request #1 and denial of Variance Request #2. Staff noted that one public comment was received in support of the request and that no comments were received in opposition. The applicant, who was present, stated that the variance requests were necessary due to the substandard lot size, noting that the lot is slightly smaller than others in the surrounding area. The BZA asked questions regarding the owner¿s understanding of zoning requirements prior to purchasing the property, as the owner owns additional properties in the neighborhood. Further discussion focused on the possibility of shifting the house forward on the lot and whether doing so would negatively affect the neighborhood¿s appearance. The applicant clarified that the septic drainfield is located toward the southwestern corner of the property and that moving the house forward would not be ideal. After discussion, the BZA determined that the request was reasonable and would not be injurious to the neighborhood. The BZA also agreed that locating a septic drainfield in the rear of the property would be difficult and that the available side yard space is limited. No members of the public were present to speak in favor of or in opposition to the request. The BZA recommended approval of the variance request by a 5-0 vote, with two members absent, subject to the six conditions outlined in the staff report.

Conditions: 1) Development shall be in accordance with the site plan date stamped July 8,2025, 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).