Tampa board approves rear-setback variance for West Tampa homeowner to add screened porch

The City of Tampa Variance Review Board on Sept. 9 granted a rear-yard setback variance allowing homeowner Janette Larissa Fenton to build a screened porch at 3102 West Leroy Street in West Tampa.

The board approved a reduction in the rear-yard setback from 20 feet to 8 feet to accommodate a 12-by-22 screen enclosure with an insulated roof. The approval carried conditions that the enclosure remain a screened outdoor area, not enclosed or converted to habitable living space, and that the applicant comply with city stormwater and permitting requirements.

Fenton, who said she has lived at the address since August 2024, described the proposed enclosure as essential for the health and well-being of her life partner, an 83-year-old, blind, disabled veteran, and for aging-in-place concerns. "The addition of a screen enclosure with an insulated roof and fans would allow him and I to spend quality time outdoors," Fenton told the board. She also said she provided a letter of support from the McFarland Park civic association and signatures from nearby neighbors.

Staff reports showed no objections from Natural Resources, Transportation, TECO or utility reviewers, and noted standard stormwater and permitting conditions including compliance with Chapter 21 of the Tampa code and inclusion of FEMA flood-zone information on construction drawings.

Board members questioned whether the porch could be conditioned against later enclosure; Fenton said this condition was acceptable. A motion to approve the variance with the noted conditions passed by voice vote.