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Lancaster BZA approves two‑story garage variance for George Wade in Whitestone
Summary
The Board approved a variance to allow a two‑story, 28x28 garage at 1029 Ringfarden Road in Whitestone, reducing the side‑yard requirement for an upper story so the garage can replace an existing shed; applicant submitted signed neighbor letters and staff noted tidal‑water (RPA) constraints in the backyard.
The Lancaster County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance to allow a two‑story, 28‑by‑28 garage at 1029 Ringfarden Road in Whitestone by reducing the required side‑yard distance for a two‑story accessory structure.
County staff explained the property has tidal water features and an RPA (resource protection area) affecting rear‑yard use; the location of the existing septic and well and setbacks from two roads (state road VSH 670 and a private 22‑foot extension) constrain the buildable area. The applicant seeks to replace an existing shed with a two‑story garage whose upper loft would be unfinished storage. Because a two‑story accessory structure is treated like a main structure for setbacks, the applicant requested a five‑foot setback from the westerly sideline rather than the usual 25 feet.
Applicant George Wade, who presented photographs and a site plan, said the new garage would sit at the terminus of the existing driveway, replace a playground and shed, and be partially screened by planted cypress trees. "The structure is only gonna be 27 foot, 11 inches tall," Wade said, and he noted two adjacent neighbors submitted signed letters approving the location.
Board members discussed the angled property line and how the front corner of the proposed garage would meet the smaller setback while the structure would move farther from the sideline toward the rear. Staff confirmed the application packet included the neighbors' letters and that the issue had been advertised; no additional public comments were recorded.
A motion to approve the variance passed after a second; the board recorded an affirmative vote, and the applicant may proceed to obtain required permits and comply with any further county zoning review. The approval applies to the location and plans presented to the board; staff and building‑permit reviewers retain authority to enforce RPA/Bay Act requirements and to verify utility easements or other encumbrances during subsequent reviews.
