Baltimore homeowners seek variance for enclosed sunroom amid zoning debate

In the heart of Baltimore, a recent meeting of the Board of Municipal & Zoning Appeals brought to light the complexities of urban living and the challenges residents face when seeking to modify their homes. The discussion centered around a proposed second-story addition to a home on Rexmere Avenue, which included plans for a screened-in porch that could potentially be enclosed with glass.

Sharon Thomas and her husband, Randy Covert, presented their case, emphasizing their desire to create a safe outdoor space as they age. Randy suffers from a severe bee allergy, making outdoor activities risky without proper protection. The couple's plan involved replacing their existing deck with a screened porch that could also feature glass panels, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors while minimizing health risks.

However, the board's deliberations revealed the intricacies of zoning laws. While decks are permitted encroachments, enclosing them with glass transforms them into structures requiring a variance. The board members discussed the necessity of demonstrating that the property had unique characteristics that warranted such a variance. They noted that many homes in the area had similar setups, making it difficult to argue for peculiarity.

Planning officials expressed no objections to the screened porch itself, but the addition of glass raised concerns. The board highlighted that zoning regulations focus on the structure rather than the personal circumstances of the residents. This distinction is crucial, as many residents often seek variances based on personal needs rather than the physical attributes of their properties.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that while the Thomases had legitimate reasons for their request, the board struggled to find the unique aspects of their property that would justify the variance. The discussion underscored a broader issue within urban planning: the balance between individual needs and community standards.

In the end, the board's decision hinged on the interpretation of what constitutes an enclosed space. The Thomases left the meeting with a clearer understanding of the challenges ahead, as they navigated the complexities of city regulations in their quest for a safe and comfortable home. The outcome of their appeal remains uncertain, but their story reflects the ongoing dialogue between residents and city officials in Baltimore, as they work to shape a community that accommodates both personal aspirations and regulatory frameworks.