Orange County — Board of Zoning Adjustment

VA-16-10-127 — RAMADAN SEYAM

Request: Variances in the C-2 zoning district to allow 4 separate buildings (3 metal structures and 1 masonry building) to remain at 2.77 ft. from the west and east side property lines in lieu of 5 ft. (Note: This is a result of code enforcement action).

Decision: Denied

Hearing: Staff gave a presentation showing the location, layout, and photographs of the site; and, work being performed outside. The applicant stated they have no history of when the buildings were placed on the property. The BZA confirmed that the applicant was informed by the code enforcement inspector to stop performing work outside, but this is still continuing to take place. An attorney representing an adjacent owner spoke against the case. His client owns six (6) properties in the area. He stated that all of his properties are in compliance, and he wants the area to be cleaned up, and that this site is overburdened and unattractive; and, sets a bad precedent for the area. Code Enforcement stated they received a citizen complaint in June, and cited the property for unpermitted sheds, merchandise in setbacks and outdoor repair. The merchandise has been moved, and the applicant has until December 2, 2016, to comply with the other items or daily fines will accrue. Staff received one (1) commentary in favor of the application and three (3) commentaries in opposition. The BZA stated that the metal buildings are bolted to the ground and can be moved. The BZA denied the variance.