Commission approves variances for 720-square-foot workshop on substandard A1 parcel

The Planning and Land Development Regulation Commission approved two variances allowing construction of a 720-square-foot accessory workshop on a prime agriculture (A1) parcel that is 0.33 acres in size.

Planner Kelly Tucker explained the lot is substandard for A1 (which requires 10 acres) and that the applicant requested a north setback reduction from 50 feet to 5 feet and a west side-yard reduction from 50 feet to 5 feet because of the parcel’s size constraints. Tucker told the commission that because the workshop exceeds 500 square feet, it must meet the principal structure setbacks per section 72 2 77 a 5. She said staff recommended approval because the request met all five variance criteria and provided two staff conditions.

Applicant Jacob Bridal said he wants to build a garage because the house did not come with one. No neighbors objected, he said, and one neighbor expressed interest in doing something similar. Member Sharon moved to approve case V-25-042 subject to two staff conditions; Member Bush seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

The approval is limited to the workshop shown in the site plan and requires the two staff conditions in the staff report before permits will be issued.