Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-21-06-032 — Lazen Engineering (Mohammed Issa)

Request: Variance in the R-CE zoning district to allow an attached 1,859 sq. ft. carport with solar panels with a south front setback of 15 ft. in lieu of 35 ft.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: SYNOPSIS: Staff described the proposal, including the location of the property, the site plan, the location of the proposed carport and photos of the site, and noted that the case was continued from June 3. Staff provided an analysis of the six (6) criteria and the reasons for a recommendation for denial of the variance. Staff noted that one (1) comment was received in support and one (1) comment was received in opposition. The BZA stated that they are familiar with the background and wanted to hear new information on the solar panels from the applicant. The applicant stated that the solar panels cannot be installed on the roof of the house due to the angle, and would not generate sufficient electricity for the house in that location, and further stated that the side and rear yards are being used and the panels cannot be installed over the drainfield. The applicant also noted that there is an additional 35 feet to the edge of the road, and that the garage will have a flat roof to accommodate the panels but the façade will utilize the same clay tile design to match the house.