Board allows modest reductions to install pool screen at 906 West Plymouth Street

The Variance Review Board granted small setback reductions on the east, west and south sides of 906 West Plymouth Street to allow construction of a pool screen enclosure that largely follows the footprint of an existing pool deck.

Owner Niraj (Niraj spelled in transcript) Patel told the board he purchased the home in September 2024 and that the pool and deck were already built. He said a narrower setback on the east side (the largest reduction requested, from 5 feet to 3.3 feet) would leave more usable walking room between the pool and enclosure and reduce a fall hazard, particularly for an 18‑month-old child in the household.

Staff noted that most trees on the site are palms around the perimeter and that three off‑site live oaks were outside the project’s protective radius; staff recommended a pruning assessment following ANSI A300 Part 1 standards if canopy work is required. Stormwater review asked the applicant to calculate ground‑cover percentages and, if the property exceeds 50% impervious area, to design retention measures in accordance with the stormwater technical manual. The applicant provided letters of support from immediate neighbors.

A board member moved to grant the minimal reductions requested (east side 5 ft to 3.3 ft, west side 5 ft to 4.9 ft, south side 5 ft to 4.5 ft) for installation of the pool screen; the motion cited neighborhood support and safety/clearance considerations. The board approved the motion by voice vote. The applicant must comply with the pruning assessment standard and any stormwater requirements during permitting.