PCP 03-01-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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A. Principal Structure Variance Findings (PC# 06-006a): . I. Except for the southern side yard lot line encroachment, the dwelling addition meets all other requirements of the R-2 Zone. The total structural coverage with all proposed additions is estimated at 24.5 percent, total landscaped lot area is 66.2 percent, and total impervious coverage is estimated at 33.8 percent. 2. The circumstances related to this variance are unique to the property. The width of the lot, which was created before the current Zoning Ordinance was III place, severely limits any expansIon of the principal structure. Furthermore, the twenty foot utility easement in front of the dwelling would make it difficult to construct a porch or entry way at the front of the structure despite being outside of the 40 foot front yard setback. 3. Granting this variance would be in keeping with the spirit of the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed addition to the dwelling is an open air porch; therefore, the slight encroachment of the addition would likely be unnoticeable and not affect neighboring properties. The proposed addition is in line with the existing structure and creates a more coherent look than if the addition were stepped back from the dwelling to meet the required side setback. 4. The applicant does currently have reasonable use of the property with the existing dwelling and accessory structure without the additions. However, the unique circumstances of thc property limit its use compared to other properties within the R-2 Zonc. . 5. The hardship was not created by the owner. The lot lines follow the original plat, which was created before the current zoning ordinance was in place. Furthermore, the 20 foot utility easement in front of the structure limits the use of the property. 6. Granting the vanance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. The existing dwelling to the south encroaches closer to the lot line that this proposed addition. A number of the structures along the west side of Lake Johanna are on narrow lots and encroach on the side yard setback. Adding the small porch would have little to no noticeable or negative affcct on the subject property or adjacent properties. 7. The variance is not based on economic considerations. The narrowness of the lot and the utility easement limits thc usability of thc lot. B. Accessory Structure Variance Findings (PC# 06-006b): I. The accessory structure, with the addition, at 21 feet 9 inches in height would not exceed the height of the dwelling at 30 feet 4 inches to the peak (Although height is normally measured at the halfway point between the peak and the eaves for this type of structure, the dwelling is well below the 35 foot height limit even at the peak and the accessory structure is less than the height of the dwelling). City of Arden Hills . Planning Commission Meetingfor March 1, 2006 \Vvfetro-inet.lls',ardenhills\P/mrningIP!anning Cases\2006\06-006 Westlund variance (PEND1NG)\021506 - PC Report Westlund Variance.doc Page 5 of 8