Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-20-11-100 — Sheila Cichra

Request: Variance in the P-D zoning district to allow a permanent generator next to the residence 6 ft. from the north side property line in lieu of 10 ft.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: SYNOPSIS: Staff discussed the proposal, covering the location of the property, the site plan, and the photos of the site. Staff explained the presence of conservation easements which extend from the rear building line of the residence to the NHWE. Staff described the width of the lot and the ability to locate a generator in accordance with fire prevention requirements only with a setback variance. Staff noted that the applicant provided a letter of support from the HOA, but staff received an email correspondence in opposition from the most impacted neighbor immediately north of the subject property, expressing concerns with noise and odor, who initially provided a letter of support. Staff explained how the six (6) criteria has been met, including the placement of the generator with the provision of a vegetative visual screen at a location that is the least impactful to the adjacent to the neighbor¿s garage and but not living area. The applicant was in agreement with the staff analysis and noted the conflict in the received letters of support. There was no one present to speak in favor or in opposition to the request. The BZA concluded that the proposed location of the generator was appropriate due to the proximity to the electrical connection. The BZA unanimously recommended approval of the variance, subject to the four (4) conditions in the staff report.