PL PACKET 04162019 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

April 16, 2019 Page 9 Front Yard Setback Variance. Staff recommends approval of the requested front yard setback encroachment variance at 2609 Pahl Avenue with the following conditions: A. The front steps are constructed to a point no closer than 25.6 feet from the front property line, as shown on the plans originally dated 10/31/18, and as subsequently amended in correspondence with City Staff. B. The plans are modified to meet the zoning ordinance requirements for all other aspects, including patio setback and impervious surfaces, unless otherwise approved by the City Council as a part of this application. This condition would include removal of any unapproved elements of the project. C. Any required permits for construction are applied for and approved by other relevant staff. This recommendation is based on a finding that the proposed steps are consistent with the character of the neighborhood, and constitute reasonable use of the property, overcoming practical difficulties related to the imposition of unusual setback requirements by adjoining homes and limitations to reasonable access to the existing structure. Side Yard Setback Encroachment Variance. Staff recommends denial of the proposed side yard setback encroachment for the patio as designed and shown on the plans dated 10/31/18, and as subsequently amended in correspondence with City staff. This recommendation is based on a finding that the request is inconsistent with commonly found conditions in the neighborhood; that there do not appear to be any unique conditions on the property that would support varying from the ordinance 5 foot setback standard; that residential sidewalks are commonly no greater than 5 feet in width; and that there are alternatives available to the applicant that can be developed without the need for variance. Impervious Surface Coverage Variance. Staff recommends approval of the variance for the proposed increase in impervious surface coverage to allow up to 3,400 square feet of impervious surface, and as illustrated on the applicant’s current site plan submitted on April 2, 2019, but with removal of adequate paved surface to meet sidewalk widths of no more than 5 feet, or patio setbacks of no less than 5 feet. As noted, the maximum impervious surface standards are in place to protect the City, and neighboring property, from the potential for flooding, as well from excessive runoff of rainwater, sediment, and pollutants. Special conditions that would justify a departure from the standard include those noted in this report, specifically, the application of the percentage standards for lots of this size creates an anomaly in impervious surface standards for slightly smaller lots, that connections on the subject property for front and rear yard sidewalks constitute a reasonable use of residential property, and that the plan evidences compliance with other common requirements of the ordinance. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Decision 1. Variance to Front Yard Setback