The Board of Zoning and Planning approved a variance June 25 permitting a covered rear porch at 4130 Ranmore Court to encroach up to 16 feet 6 inches into the 26 foot 10 inch average minimum rear yard setback, where the UDO permits a maximum projection of 6 feet.

Justin, planning staff, reminded the board that a code change several years earlier increased allowed porch projections and reduced the number of variances previously needed, but said this application—originally discussed with staff in 2022—proposes the deepest projection the staff had seen and that staff could support a reduced projection. Staff cited the lot’s irregular shape, extensive tree screening, and a neighboring pattern of deep lots as relevant factors.

Applicant John Francke and representative Brenda Parker explained the proposed porch is situated directly off the kitchen and family room and that the depth was chosen to retain interior sightlines and furniture layout. Board members questioned whether a wider-but-shallower porch would meet the applicant’s needs; applicants said moving the porch would interfere with interior windows and circulation.

No written public opposition was reported. The board approved the variance with findings numbers 1, 3 and 4. Staff will verify final plans when the applicant applies for a building permit.