Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-21-02-137 — Roger Anderson

Request: "Variance in the R-2 zoning district to allow an existing 8 ft. high masonry wall in the front yard in lieu of 4 ft.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: SYNOPSIS: Staff explained the history of the property, the location, and the location of the existing 8 ft. high wall used for screening. Staff also provided the survey and discussed the existing easements, the wall detail, and photos of the site. Staff provided an analysis of the six (6) criteria and the reasons for a recommendation for approval. Staff noted the owner received a permit for the wall in 2001, but no final inspection was scheduled and the permit subsequently expired. Staff also described the recent Code Enforcement action for the storage of materials, equipment, and other items in conjunction with the business on the residentially designated part of the property as well as the incomplete result of the prior wall permit. Staff noted that one letter of support was received from the adjacent HOA and no correspondence in opposition was received. The owner had nothing to add to with the staff presentation and indicated the desire resolve this matter immediately. There was no one present to speak in favor or in opposition to the application. The BZA concluded that given the number of years the wall has been standing, the fact that the County had permitted the wall, and the support of the adjacent HOA. The BZA unanimously recommended approval of the variance, subject to the five (5) conditions in the staff report.