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Planning board approves addition variance at 6467 SW 18 Terrace, 4-1
Summary
The board approved a variance to allow an addition to be constructed in line with an existing home that sits closer to the rear property line than the current code requires; the motion passed 4-1.
On Jan. 29 the City of West Miami Planning and Zoning Board approved a variance for an addition at 6467 Southwest 18 Terrace that will align with the existing rear yard setback, allowing the addition to sit 12 feet from the rear property line where 15 feet is required.
Christine Castro, who said she owns the property with a co-owner, described the lot as wider than deep and presented the project as a simple extension to connect to the existing house. Board members questioned whether the owner could shift the addition forward by about three feet to meet the required setback; several members pressed for a demonstrable hardship. Staff noted the property-appraiser records show multiple build dates, including 1951 and 1985, and said the city’s zoning code was established around 1979, suggesting the existing house is likely grandfathered.
After extended discussion about whether relocating the addition would be practical, a board member moved to approve based on the existing structure’s placement and what appeared to be similar additions on nearby properties. The roll-call vote recorded four yes votes and one no; Gustavo Ceballos stated he opposed granting variances that are not strictly necessary. The motion carried.
