Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-14-12-078 — John Brennan

Request: Variances in the R-1 zoning district as follows:

1) To allow accessory structure (metal carport) not made of materials commonly used in single family residential construction; 2) Permit an accessory structure (metal carport) in front of a principal structure in lieu of side or rear yards; and 3) To allow camper/RV in front yard in lieu of side or rear yards. (Note: The applicant has obtained 12 letters in support from his neighbors) (Note: This is a result of code enforcement action.)

Decision: Approved

Hearing: The applicant is requesting variances to allow: 1. accessory structure, metal carport not made of materials commonly used in single family residential construction; and 2. accessory structure, metal carport in front of a principal structure in lieu of side or rear yards; 3. camper, RV in front yard in lieu of side or rear yards

The applicant stated they did not realize a permit was required, and agreed with staff that it was impossible to put the structure in the back yard. The applicant further explained all the other extensive improvements they made to the property, and stated that they spoke to adjacent neighbors, some of whom did not even realize the structure was there.

The BZA asked about extending the siding to the ground, and stated that the structure looks higher than the 12 ft. stated on the application. The BZA further stated that they would normally require materials similar to the house.

Staff received twelve commentaries in favor of the application and three in opposition.

The neighbor across the street spoke in opposition at the hearing. They stated that everyone in the area keeps their RVs in back yard sheds, and that this would set a precedent for others to go in the front. They also stated that the structure is huge, and that the neighbors that approved do not live right across the street.

Staff stated that the height is limited to 15 ft. and the application stated 12 ft., thus the BZA can continue the case to add the height variance, or approve it with a 15 ft. height maximum. The BZA also expressed concern about the height.

The BZA approved the variance subject to several conditions.