Zoning administrator approves front‑setback variance for single‑car garage in Homewood

The Zoning Administrator approved a front‑setback variance on Sept. 18 allowing construction of a one‑car garage, an enclosed front entry and a snow screen at 3915 Alpine Avenue in Homewood. The proposed structures will be located 33 feet from the centerline of the traveled way where 45 feet is normally required.

Tahoe planning staff described the parcel as a pie‑shaped lot with curved frontage and a house built between 1924 and 1933. Staff and the county’s architectural reviewer determined the property is not historic. The location of the existing residence and the parcel configuration limited available development space; staff concluded the variance findings could be made and recommended approval. Engineering and Environmental Health raised no project‑specific concerns.

Brad Altman, the project’s principal engineer, told the hearing he concurred with staff findings. Because no public comment or written opposition was received, the zoning administrator waived the appeal period and allowed the project to proceed in accordance with the conditions in the staff report.

Why it matters: The decision enables a property owner in the Tahoe basin to add a garage and protected entry for snow country needs while preserving sight‑line space for snow removal and storage. The administrator cited the parcel’s physical constraints as the basis for the variance findings.

Next steps: With the appeal period waived, the applicant may move forward with building permits consistent with county conditions.