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Commission approves variance for long-standing deck encroachment on Madison Street
Summary
The planning commission approved a major variance allowing an existing deck at 225 Madison Street to remain despite a roughly 2.5-foot encroachment into the west side-yard setback; staff cited age of structure, site constraints and limited public comment.
On Sept. 9, 2025, the Ketchikan Gateway Borough Planning Commission approved a variance permitting an existing deck at 225 Madison Street to remain despite encroaching into the side-yard setback.
Alethia Johnson, planning staff, said the deck was built by a prior owner and appears in aerial imagery as far back as February 2001. The property is in a medium-density residential zone with 5-foot side-yard setbacks; the deck encroaches approximately 2.5 feet into the west side-yard. Johnson described the residence as nonconforming, noted terraced topography and constrained access from the alley; staff found that altering the deck to meet setback requirements would add about 10% to the total cost of the applicant’s planned decking and ramp work. Staff recommended approval.
Commissioners asked whether the deck abutted a chain-link fence and whether neighbors had objected; Johnson said she did not measure the clearance but the applicant reported being able to push a lawnmower between the deck and the fence. Staff reported no written comments from neighbors.
The applicant spoke briefly to thank staff; no other public testimony was offered.
Commissioner Arnold moved to adopt Resolution 4530a to approve the variance; Commissioner Dispenza seconded. The roll call recorded Gage, Dispenza, Arnold, Gubitayo, Govars and Shaw voting yes; the motion carried (6–0).
The planning director reminded the public that variance and conditional-use decisions may be appealed to the borough assembly within 15 days of the decision.
