The Board of Zoning Adjustments unanimously approved a variance that allows a rear wall of a house at 875 Grant Place in Boulder to sit at approximately the property line rather than the 25‑foot rear setback required in R‑O‑1 zoning.

The variance, docket BOZ2025‑00006, was presented to the board after staff and the applicant described a century‑old pattern of encroachments and a proposal that removes some nonconforming elements while bringing the principal structure on to the property. Staff recommended approval, and no members of the public spoke on the matter.

Robbie Wyler, BOZA staff liaison with the City of Boulder Planning and Development Services, told the board the lot is substandard for R‑O‑1 zoning (6,367 square feet; the R‑O‑1 minimum is 7,000) and that the house was constructed circa 1925. Wyler said the building permit for the planned remodel and addition (BLD SFD 202500115) identified roof overhangs and a portion of the back wall extending into the city right of way; the permit remains in review pending the variance. "Staff is in support of the application as it has been presented," Wyler said, noting the applicant also is removing a cinder‑block storage area that did not meet interior side setbacks.

Dan Rotner, the architect for the project, described the owners' objective to retain and renovate the existing structure rather than demolish it, and said the design team sought to preserve the home's historic character while bringing the property into compliance where feasible. "We're really excited to be a part of this," Rotner said.

Board members described the request as straightforward and consistent with the variance criteria. "I agree with staff's decision to approve," said Sean Haney, BOZA member, adding that the project reduces other nonconforming elements and that the proposed additions meet applicable setbacks. Katie Crane moved to approve BOZ2025‑00006; Drew (last name not specified in the transcript) seconded. A roll call produced four affirmative votes — Sean Haney, Drew, Katie Crane and Chair Nikki McCord — and the motion passed.

According to materials in the record, the applicant submitted 9 letters of support (six came from immediate neighbors or nearby properties). The applicants purchased the property in May 2024; a landmark alteration certificate related to the parcel (HIS202500048) and the building permit application were noted in staff materials. Staff said some documentary records show the property's nonstandard status dating to the 1930s and that a variance attempt was recorded in the 1940s.

No construction had begun as of the hearing; staff said removal of structural elements in the right of way would be required and that the proposed new wall and roof overhangs are being adjusted so the structure will be wholly on the property when built. The proposed garage meets the required 25‑foot rear setback, staff said.

The board’s rules discussed at the start of the meeting require three or more affirmative votes to approve an application; staff explained rehearing and tie rules in the event of split votes. With the approval, the applicant may proceed with final building permit review and any required inspections or follow‑ups related to bringing the property into conformance.