Galveston Zoning Board defers decision on front-yard setback at 4217 Las Palmas

The Zoning Board of Adjustment for the City of Galveston on Sept. 3 deferred a decision on a special exception request for 4217 Las Palmas after an initial motion to approve failed to receive the four affirmative votes required of the four members present.

The applicant sought an exception to the Galveston Land Development Regulations to reduce the required front setback from 20 feet to 14.3 feet. Staff reported the as-built survey shows the structure was constructed about 3.3 feet past the required front setback; the applicant asked the board to legalize the existing condition rather than alter the house to meet the 20-foot standard.

The request matters, staff told the board, because Section 12.401 of the Land Development Regulations permits a front-yard exception when two or more lots in the same block do not meet the required front…