Planning Commission approves front-yard setback variance for poolhouse at 5501 Nantucket Place

The Minnetonka Planning Commission on June 26 approved a front-yard setback variance for a proposed 14-by-14 poolhouse at 5501 Nantucket Place, allowing the structure to sit 24.5 feet from the property’s front line and about 12 feet from the back of the curb. The commission voted 5–1 to grant the variance; the decision is final and subject to appeal.

Staff had recommended denial, saying the application did not meet the city’s variance criteria because the proposed location conflicted with the ordinance’s 35-foot front-yard setback for accessory structures and would alter the neighborhood’s building line. "The yard could accommodate the proposed pool house in a separate location," staff said in its report. Staff also concluded the proposal did not demonstrate unique circumstances…