Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-20-01-149 — Sr Builders, Inc. (Scott Ryan)

Request: Variance in the R-1A zoning district to allow an attached accessory structure of 1,204 sq. ft. in lieu of 1,000 sq. ft. or 25% whichever is greater.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: Staff explained the history of the property, including the fact that it was created through the lot split process, as opposed to the subdivision process. Staff further explained that due to recent revisions to the code, accessory structures attached to the principle structure by a covered or enclosed walkway 20 ft. or less in length were considered attached accessory structure which can be located in front of the principle structure. However, the non-living areas is limited in size to the greater of 500 ft. or 25% of the living area of the principle structure, up to 1,000 sq. ft. The applicant is entitled to 549 sq. ft., but is requesting 2,404 sq. ft. of non-living space. There is also a bedroom suite on the second floor of the structure, which is permitted. If the accessory structure where not attached, it would fall under the rule that it could have floor area equal to 10% of the developable lot area up to 3,000 sq. ft., which would allow for a 2,400 sq. ft. of floor area, though a variance would be needed to have it in front of the principle structure. If it were attached by a common wall, there would be no maximum. Staff noted that it had received one (1) correspondence in favor this request, and zero (0) in opposition. The applicant indicated their agreement with the staff recommendation and conditions. One neighboring property owner spoke in favor of the request. There being no one else in attendance to speak in favor or opposition to the request, the public hearing was closed. The BZA concluded that the width of the lot and the location of the septic system precluded the placement of the accessory structure anywhere else. A motion to recommend approval of the request passed by unanimous vote.