The Franklin City Board of Zoning Appeals on July 3 approved a variance permitting a 1.5:12 roof pitch for an addition to the house at 109 Carolyn Avenue, despite staff’s recommendation to deny the request because the ordinance permits roof pitches between 3:12 and 12:12.

The decision was framed by neighbors and the applicant as an effort to preserve the mid‑century character of a neighborhood where lower-profile roofs are common.

Staff reported that the existing house (on a 0.44-acre lot) features multiple roof pitches ranging from 3:12 to 5:12 and that the zoning ordinance allows between 3:12 and 12:12 for roof pitch. Staff concluded Criteria 1 (extraordinary conditions of the lot) was not met because no condition prevents a 3:12 pitch, but that Criteria 2 (practical difficulties) and Criteria 3 (no detriment to public good) were met; staff therefore recommended denial because not all three criteria were satisfied.

The property owner and applicant argued otherwise. The owner said she and her husband had purchased 109 Carolyn to downsize and keep a mid‑century house “the way it is,” noting the lot sits high on the street and that raising the roof to meet a 3:12 pitch would be visually inconsistent. The owner said neighbors Joe Keeter and Gail and Craig Parker have similar roof profiles and supported keeping the design consistent. Architect David Ayers told the board, “Enforcing the ordinance in this case defeats the purpose of the ordinance,” arguing that the requested lower roof on the rear addition would preserve the house’s character and the street’s mid‑century profile.

Multiple neighbors spoke in support. Gail Parker, who lives across the street, said, “Please let our street stay the way it is,” describing the neighborhood’s existing character and urging the board to preserve it.

Board member Smith moved to approve the variance, emphasizing the lot’s elevated position and the street’s mid‑century character as an “extraordinary and exceptional situation or condition.” Board member Scales seconded. The vote was unanimous: Scales — approve; Langley — approve; Smith — approve; Flushauer — approve.

The approval permits the addition to use a 1.5:12 roof pitch so the house’s low profile from the street is maintained. Staff noted this is an uncommon roof‑pitch variance at the BZA level and flagged that the Historic Preservation Commission had been involved in related conversation about preserving mid‑century homes in Franklin.