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La Grange trustees approve corner‑yard variance for detached garage at 449 South Stone Avenue
Summary
The Village of La Grange Board of Trustees approved a zoning variation allowing a detached garage to encroach 11 feet into the 17‑foot corner side yard at 449 South Stone Avenue after debate about safety, neighborhood character and alternatives; the zoning board of appeals was split but trustees voted 6–0 to grant the variance.
Trustees approved a zoning variation Tuesday allowing a detached garage to be built 6 feet from the corner side lot line at 449 South Stone Avenue, encroaching 11 feet into the required 17‑foot corner side yard.
The vote followed public comment from neighbors and a long discussion among trustees about traffic safety on nearby 47th Street, sight lines, and alternative designs. The Village Board approved the motion 6–0.
The variance matter went to the Board after the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a public hearing in November 2024 and split 3–2 on recommending approval. At the ZBA hearing, several commissioners said the garage could be located in the rear of the lot; others said that alternative locations would unduly restrict the owner’s use of the yard.
Steven Specht, the property owner and applicant, told trustees he and his wife…
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