Board approves model-home variance at 6801 Hatch Road despite proximity to nearby residences

The Fort Worth Board of Adjustment on March 19 approved a variance allowing construction of a model home on an unplatted lot at 6801 Hatch Road, where the rear yard of the proposed model would begin about 275 feet from the property’s point of beginning and be within the 300-foot buffer the code normally requires when the lot is more than 500 feet from an arterial.

City staff told the board the property is currently vacant and not finally platted; the model-home ordinance in the Unified Development Code allows show homes in platted subdivisions but requires model homes located more than 500 feet from an arterial to be at least 300 feet from an occupied residence and subjects such homes to a five-year time limit. Staff measured that three occupied homes fall within the 300-foot radius and noted the closest occupied home would be approximately 46 feet from the proposed model home (across Hatch Road).

The applicant’s representative, Andy Poland, said the team can manage visitor parking and will encourage visitors to park within the subdivision. He also said fencing would be provided per development requirements and that final platting will occur before building permits are issued. Staff and the applicant agreed that if the final plat shifts the model-home location materially, the applicant would need to return to the board.

Board members asked whether the five-year time limit would run from the date of the variance; staff confirmed the five-year clock begins on the date of approval. Commissioner Bob Riley moved to approve the variance and the motion was seconded; the board voted to approve unanimously.