Board denies after‑the‑fact carport at 3601 Lancaster Lane; removal ordered within 30 days

The Board of Adjustments voted 6–1 to deny Amanda Adams’ request for a front-yard variance to keep an after‑the‑fact carport at 3601 Lancaster Lane. The structure encroaches on the 35‑foot front setback required in the R‑100 residential district, opponents told the board.

Neighbors testified the structure was erected without a permit and argued variances should not be granted for self‑created hardships. One neighbor said the structure “encroaches approximately 10 feet onto the 35 foot front setback” and asked that the board deny the request. Another neighbor urged removal to avoid setting a precedent that could allow similar after‑the‑fact structures in the neighborhood.

Amanda Adams said the carport sits on an existing concrete parking pad and that trees in the backyard made relocation impractical; she also provided appraisal letters she said showed the carport did not reduce property values. The board concluded the request was not compatible with neighborhood character and voted to deny the exception, amending the motion to require removal within 30 days.