11-05-25 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – October 8, 2025 2 proposed deck would expand the footprint to the south approximately five (5) additional feet to accommodate a ramp. The proposed deck would extend approximately 23.5 feet south and increase the deck footprint but would not encroach beyond the existing nonconforming rear yard setback. Senior Planner Fransen reviewed the Site Data, the Plan Evaluation and provided the Findings of Fact for review: General Findings: 1. City Staff received a land use application for a variance request to the required R-1 Zoning District rear yard setback for decks at the Subject Property 3254 Hamline Avenue North. 2. The principal structure and existing deck on the Subject Property are nonconforming with the required rear yard setback and have a setback of 8.8 feet. 3. The proposed new deck would expand the footprint of the existing deck and therefore a variance is required. 4. The proposed new deck would not extend beyond the existing nonconforming 8.8-foot rear yard setback. 5. The proposed deck would not require variances for front yard, side yard setbacks, impervious surface coverage, or structure coverage. 6. The Subject Property is a riparian lot with frontage on Lake Josephine and is subject to Shoreland Regulations. 7. The proposed deck would be set back 153.78 feet from Ordinary High Water Level and would be located outside of the required structure setback of 50 feet and the shore impact zone of 25 feet as measured from OHW. 8. The Applicant has submitted a shoreland mitigation plan for the proposed deck. 9. The proposed deck on the Subject Property would conform to all other requirements and standards of the R-1 Zoning District and the Shoreland Regulations. Variance Findings: 10. Variances are only permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance. 11. The proposed deck is a reasonable use of the property that would not be allowed under the rules of the Zoning Code without the requested variance. 12. The proposed deck would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. 13. The variance request is not based on economic considerations alone. Senior Planner Fransen reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission for Planning Case 25-011 for a variance to construct a new deck with an 8.8-foot rear yard setback at 3254 Hamline Avenue North: 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions 1. A Building Permit shall be issued prior to the commencement of construction. 2. The proposed building shall conform to all other standards and regulations in the City Code. 3. A Grading and Erosion permit shall be obtained from the City’s PW/Engineering Division prior to commencing any grading, land disturbance or utility activities. 4. The Applicant shall be responsible for obtaining any permits necessary from other agencies, including but not limited to, RCWD and DNR, prior to the start of any site activities.