Board denies permit variance request after homeowner's unauthorized driveway expansion

In a recent meeting of the Prince George Board of Appeals, a homeowner's request for a variance to extend their driveway sparked a detailed discussion among board members. The meeting, held on March 26, 2025, highlighted the complexities of property regulations and the importance of obtaining necessary permits before undertaking construction work.

As the meeting commenced, board members reviewed photographs of the property in question, which had undergone modifications without the required permits. The homeowner, Ms. Estevez, explained that she was unaware of the need for a permit, relying on her contractor's advice that no permit was necessary unless the driveway apron was extended. However, the board quickly pointed out that the work had already been completed, raising questions about compliance with local regulations.

Vice Chair Johnston and other board members expressed concerns about the size of the driveway, noting that it appeared larger than permitted. The homeowner acknowledged that part of the driveway would need to be removed even if the variance were approved, as it exceeded the allowable dimensions set by the county.

The discussion turned to the criteria for granting a variance, with one board member emphasizing that the homeowner's situation was somewhat self-inflicted due to the lack of proper permits. This raised doubts about whether the board could approve the request, as one of the key criteria is that the property owner should not cause damage by starting work without the necessary permissions.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the board was leaning towards denying the variance request. The implications of this decision could significantly impact Ms. Estevez, who had already invested in the driveway modifications based on her contractor's guidance.

The meeting concluded with a sense of caution, underscoring the importance of understanding local regulations and the potential consequences of bypassing them. As the board deliberates on the final decision, the case serves as a reminder to homeowners about the critical need for compliance with building codes and permits in Prince George's County.