Oklahoma City approves variances for Adventure District and Richardson's property setbacks

The Oklahoma City Board of Adjustment convened on April 17, 2025, to address several variance requests, focusing on sign regulations and property setbacks.

The meeting began with the approval of case number 15889, which involved a request from Metro Signs on behalf of the OKC Adventure District for a variance regarding sign size and the prohibition of signs in the right of way at 5901 North Martin Luther King Avenue. The motion to approve the variance was made and seconded, and it passed unanimously.

Following this, the board considered case number 15890, which was also related to the OKC Adventure District. The request was for a variance concerning the same sign regulations as the previous case. After a brief discussion, the motion to approve this variance was made, seconded, and subsequently passed.

The third item on the agenda was case number 15898, presented by Patrick Richardson, who sought a variance for a 25-foot rear yard setback at his property located at 8421 Southwest 109th Terrace. Richardson explained that his property is zoned for agriculture within a private gated community, which imposes a stricter setback requirement than the standard 10-foot setback applicable to other areas in Oklahoma City. He noted that the setback requirement posed challenges for his plans to install a pool. Richardson confirmed that his Homeowners Association (HOA) had approved his request, although he was required to present it to the board formally.

The board engaged in a brief discussion regarding the unique shape of Richardson's lot and the challenges it presented. No additional public comments were made, and the board moved forward with the discussion. Ultimately, the board voted to approve the variance request.

In summary, the meeting addressed three key cases, all of which resulted in approvals for the requested variances, reflecting the board's alignment with statutory requirements and community considerations. The next steps for the applicants will involve adhering to any conditions set forth by the board as they proceed with their projects.