Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

SE-99-10-016 — Charles L. Cooper

Request: Special Exception in R-1AA zone for a guest cottage.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: The Coopers have a detached garage that they want to add on to and convert to a guest cottage. With the addition, the total size will be just under 500 square feet; this meets the size limitation specified by Code for guest cottages. It will consist of one bedroom, one bathroom, and a living room. The Coopers want the guest cottage for visiting relatives and for when their two twin grandchildren have friends for sleepover. Several commentaries were received in opposition. The abutting property owners to the west on Rockwood Drive were at the public hearing and addressed the BZA. The abutting property owners were primarily concerned with the condition of the property, stated there was a continuous garbage heap and junk-type items littering the area next to the garage, which is adjacent to their home. They stated they would have no objection to the guest cottage if the property were cleaned up. The commentaries received in opposition cited the same concern and also expressed concern that the guest cottage would be rented. In response to the opposition's concerns, the applicant's building contractor promised the BZA that the grounds would be cleaned prior to construction. He stated a large area around the entire structure would need to cleared in order for construction activities to take place. In response to the opposition's concern, the BZA attached the above conditions to the applicant's Special Exception approval.