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Commission approves setback variance for new home in Hillsdale Estates
Summary
Ada County planners approved a variance allowing a proposed single‑family dwelling in Hillsdale Estates to encroach 5 feet into the western side yard setback because steep slopes and road access constrain building placement.
Ada County planning staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission approved a variance request Wednesday permitting a single‑family home in Hillsdale Estates to encroach into the western side yard setback.
Staff member Leon told the commission the 1.53‑acre lot is a legal nonconforming platted lot within Hillsdale Estates; the applicant, Pat Unenmacher, asked to reduce the western setback to 5 feet from the typical 25 feet because steep slopes and site constraints limit buildable area. "Where the proposed footprint for the home is, is in this green area, and it's very far to the west of the lot itself," Leon said, describing a slope analysis submitted by the applicant.
Agency reviewers raised standard technical points. The building official had no objection but noted building permits and wildfire‑interface construction standards will apply; the county engineer flagged grading and drainage and possible retaining‑wall requirements. No public commenters objected at the hearing.
Staff recommended approval after concluding the lot's nonconforming history and steep slopes constitute unique circumstances that meet variance findings. A commissioner moved to approve the variance based on the staff report and the motion carried by voice vote.
The approval allows the applicant to pursue building permits subject to building‑permit requirements, wildfire‑interface standards and any grading/drainage conditions the county engineer requires.
