D.C. Zoning Board approves several residential variances and modifications, postpones one case to March 5

The District of Columbia Board of Zoning Adjustments (BZA) met via Webex and YouTube live on Jan. 22, 2025, and approved a string of applications for residential additions, conversions and lot modifications while postponing one hearing to March 5.

The board approved requests that would add floors or units, alter rear-yard and side-yard setbacks, and modify building envelopes for several properties across the city. Office of Planning staff advised the board on most items and repeatedly recommended approval. The board recorded votes on multiple items (see “Votes at a glance”).

Votes at a glance

- Application 21149 (1801 D Street NE, Square 4560, Lot 152): Applicant requested area variances to permit two new three‑story single‑family homes on a parcel occupied by a parking lot. The board approved the variance, citing a 50‑foot DC Water easement that consumes most of the lot and creates a practical difficulty. Motion to approve by Chairman Fred Hill; second by Carl Blake. Vote recorded: Chairman Fred Hill — yes; Kershawn Smith — yes; Carl Blake — yes; Gwen Wright — yes. One board member did not participate. Outcome: approved.

- Application 21169 (3510 New Hampshire Ave NW, Square 2831, Lot 800): Applicant sought special-exception relief for a third‑story addition and related side‑yard, rear‑yard and lot‑occupancy relief on an RF‑1 corner lot. The board approved the request after the applicant presented sun studies and neighbor outreach. Motion to approve by Chairman Hill; second by Carl Blake. Vote recorded: Hill — yes; Smith — yes; Blake — yes; Wright — yes. One board member did not participate. Outcome: approved.

- Application 20507B (8993 Hawaii Ave NE, RA‑1, Lots 8 & 9): Modification with hearing to a prior BZA order…