Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-17-01-187 — SHEILA CICHRA

Request: Variance in the R-1A zoning district to permit construction of a new two-story residence and garage 18 ft. from the rear (west) property line in lieu of 30 ft. (Note: The lot contains wetlands and uplands. Applicant submitted letters of no objection from some of the affected adjacent owners.)

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff noted that while the applicant knew there were wetlands on the property, they had no way of knowing that over 70% of the property was wetland until after EPD had approved a CAD for the property in early December. The bulk of the usable property was in the northwest corner section. The applicant proposes a two-story home and avoid any impacts to the wetlands. Staff also noted there is an existing structure on the property which is 18 ft. from the rear (west) property line. The applicant proposes to maintain that setback. The three most impacted property owners have all submitted letters of support. The applicant's agent noted that they were in agreement with the recommendation and all conditions. There being no one present to speak for or against the request, the public hearing was closed. The BZA found that without the variance the land would be undevelopable. Further, due to the dense vegetation in the wetland, the new house would be barely visible. Also, the most impacted property owners are in support