PCBOA approves variance for Todd Allen to build on nonconforming lot with conditions limiting future expansion

Hubbard County’s Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment approved a variance request by Todd Allen to allow development of a dwelling on a nonconforming lot near Hay Lake and to permit a reduced separation between the house and an on-site pressure-bed septic system, subject to conditions limiting future additions.

Allen said he had amended his plan to lower the building’s overall height and retain a 30-by-30-foot footprint with a 10-by-15 lakeside deck; the amended plan reduced the visual impact compared with an earlier A-frame design. He told the board the objective was to preserve mature pines and minimize view blockage for neighbors while meeting septic setbacks by adjusting the house and pressure bed locations. Staff confirmed an engineered septic design had been provided.

Larry moved to approve the variance and accept staff findings with specific edits to findings 1 and 2 describing the setback relationship between the house, the pressure bed and the ordinary high water mark. The board recorded three conditions: maximum structure height of 30 feet, retention of the 10-by-15 lakeside deck shown on the amended plan, and no further expansions or additional accessory structures allowed after this approval. Tim seconded. The motion passed 4-0 (Tim, Ken, Larry and Veronica voting “aye”). Vice Chair Veronica said the applicant would receive a decision letter from Environmental Services with the modifications to the findings.

Board members discussed keeping the pressure bed at 20 feet from the dwelling and the implication of moving the pressure bed closer to the lake, and confirmed the motion’s edits clarify the requested 40-foot ordinary‑high‑water setback for the pressure bed.