Zoning Board Approves Variance Requests for Front Yard Carports and Garage Conversions

The Grand Prairie Zoning Board of Adjustment convened on August 18, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items concerning special exceptions and variances for residential properties in the area.

The meeting began with Item 4, ZBA25070050, which involved a request for a special exception and variance for a front yard carport at 310 West Horrell Way. The applicant sought to reduce the required front yard setback from 5 feet to 3 feet. The property, highlighted in yellow on the presentation, is located within an 800-foot buffer zone, with several legally permitted carports in the vicinity. The board noted that three positions were received in favor of the request, while no opposition was recorded from the 45 notices sent out. Staff did not object to the variance.

Next, Item 5, ZBA25070052, addressed a special exception request for a garage conversion at 646 Lynn Drive. The applicant successfully demonstrated the provision of two off-street parking spaces, a requirement for such conversions. The board received 46 notices, with no responses in favor or opposition, and noted the absence of a homeowners association. Staff expressed no objections to this request.

Following this, Item 6, ZBA25070053, involved another garage conversion request at 321 West Phillips Court. The applicant proposed converting a 220-square-foot garage into a storage area while maintaining the required two off-street parking spaces. Similar to the previous cases, 45 notices were sent, with no responses received. Staff did not oppose the request.

The final item discussed was ZBA25070054, which involved a special exception and variance for a front yard carport at 3746 Oak Meadow Drive. The applicant aimed to expand an existing carport and increase the maximum lot coverage from 30% to 55%. The board noted that while there was one other legally permitted carport in the neighborhood, the request could not be administratively approved due to the exceeding lot coverage. Staff objected to this request, and 31 notices were sent out with no responses in favor or opposition.

In conclusion, the meeting addressed multiple requests for variances and special exceptions, with most receiving staff support. However, the request for increased lot coverage at 3746 Oak Meadow Drive faced opposition from staff, highlighting the ongoing balance between property development and zoning regulations in Grand Prairie.