05-03-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View Planning Commission May 3, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 2 ________________________________________________________________________ 4. Citizens Requests and Comments on Items Not on the Agenda None. ______________________________________________________________________________ 5. Planning Case VR2006-001. Consideration of a Variance for Garage Height, 8478 Long Lake Road, Dan and Diane Balk Community Development Director Ericson explained that the applicants, Don and Diane Balk, reside at 8478 Long Lake Road and own the vacant lot adjacent to the west at the corner of Long Lake Road (formerly County Road J) and Sunnyside Road. The Balks would like to build a new home on the vacant lot and sell their old home. A conditional use permit was granted to allow for a garage footprint of 1,062 square feet to allow the Balks to park their recreational vehicle inside the garage. Without the extra depth needed for the RV (an additional nine feet) the garage would not necessitate a CUP. Director Ericson stated because of how the garage is intended to be used, additional clearance would be needed to allow the RV to enter the garage. A standard height garage opening would be insufficient, which has prompted the request for a variance. Director Ericson explained for a variance to be approved, the applicant needs to demonstrate a hardship or practical difficulty associated with the property that makes a literal interpretation of the Code overly burdensome or restrictive. Director Ericson read the variance considerations and stated exceptional or extraordinary circumstances apply to the property, which do not apply generally to other properties in the same zone or vicinity. While the lot itself meets all minimum requirements, being a corner lot there are additional setbacks that limit the areas in which the RV could be parked outside. Director Ericson explained the literal interpretation of the provisions of this Title would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties. While the literal interpretation of the provisions of the Zoning Code would not deprive the applicant of rights enjoyed by other properties in the same zone, the applicants desire to park their RV inside the garage not only for aesthetic reasons but also for security. Director Ericson stated special conditions or circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant. Ownership of an RV does prompt the request, the special conditions could be argued to be more “community” driven from the standpoint of visibility and aesthetics. Director Ericson stated granting the variance requested would not confer on the applicant any special privilege. Every property owner has the right to apply for a variance to improve the function and livability of their home. The Planning Commission has approved similar height variances in the past for oversize vehicles.