Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-20-03-006 — Tharpe Belote

Request: Variance in the R-1 zoning district to allow an existing open front porch 16.6 ft. from the front property line in lieu of 20 ft. Note: This is the result of Code Enforcement action.

Decision: Approved

Hearing: SYNOPSIS: Staff explained the history of the property, including the fact that the applicant was unaware that a tenant had removed the original covered porch and replaced it with what is there today. In addition, the tenant had installed a fence, pavers, and a storage container in the rear yard, along with equipment associated with a business. The applicant became aware of these improvements and activities by way of a code violation notice. Since being notified, the applicant has corrected all of the violations but the porch, which requires a variance in order to remain. The applicant could reconstruct the original porch without the need for a variance. The applicant explained that to make the porch meet the setback they would need to completely remove and replace the porch. This would force the current tenants to use the rear entry as the only means of access. The BZA noted the other structures along Mott Ave. which are in the front setbacks, and that the porch enhances the home and is a nice improvement to the neighborhood. There were no correspondences in favor or in opposition and there was no one present to speak in favor or in opposition to the request. The BZA unanimously recommended approval of the variance with the four (4) conditions in the staff booklet.