Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-04-02-120 — Gloria Jean Kaasa

Request: Variance in R-1A (single family-7,500 sq. ft. lots) zone to allow detached accessory structure (carport) to remain in front yard in lieu of rear yard. (NOTE: This request is a result of Code Enforcement action).

Decision: Approved

Hearing: The applicant was cited by Code Enforcement for having the carport without a permit. The carport is a portable awning type structure that is open on the sides. The structure's awning color matches the color of the applicant's house. This type of structure is portable in nature and can be removed. It is not attached to the house, but is separate from the house front by about 3-4 feet. The fact that it is detached from the house requires the Variance. If it had been a carport made of permanent material attached to the house, a Variance would not be necessary. This is a corner lot, and the house sits far off the intersection. There is plenty of open space in the front yard, and the structure does not obstruct traffic visibility, nor would it negatively impact neighboring properties. There were six commentaries in favor. There was no opposition present at the public hearing. The BZA felt the structure was visually compatible with the house and would not impact other properties. However, the BZA district representative acknowledged that there are efforts being made to upgrade the Azalea Park community, and it was in the best interest to put a time limit on the use of the carport. Therefore, the BZA imposed a third condition, which the applicant agreed to.