Decatur BZA denies front-yard porch setback variance at 1308 19th Ave. SW

The Board of Zoning and Adjustments of Decatur City on Oct. 12 (meeting date not specified) denied an application by Jesus Delgado for a 9.5-foot front-yard setback variance under section 25-10.92(c) to permit a covered porch at 1308 19th Avenue Southwest.

The variance would have allowed a porch located approximately 25.5 feet from the front property line. The homeowner’s representative, Mardelli Gonzalez, said the porch is intended to shade windows and make the front door safe for the applicant’s children during hot weather. “...we would like to have something that's permanent so that we don't have to replace it if it gets damaged,” Gonzalez said.

The board’s discussion focused on neighborhood character and the alignment of houses along the street. Members noted that placing a porch forward of the established building line would “break up the line” of houses and could set a precedent if neighbors sought similar front-yard additions. Planning staff noted alternative options exist, such as awnings, and that the porch design differs from a traditional stoop.

After public testimony closed, a motion to grant the variance was put to roll call. Board members Delaine Dean, Erica Hooper, Tom Pohl, Chester Ayers and Mark Moody each voted no; the variance request was denied. The board told the applicant she may reapply with a smaller porch or different options.

The board’s denial does not prevent the applicant from reapplying; staff advised the applicant she can submit a new application with different dimensions. The planning department also suggested the applicant consider alternatives such as awnings or a smaller stoop if the goal is shade and safer door access.