BZA approves large side‑yard setback variance for detached garage at 1320 East Hanselman Road

The Angola City Board of Zoning Appeals on April 28 approved a variance allowing a detached garage to be built as close as 3 feet to the east property line at 1320 East Hanselman Road, in an area zoned agricultural within the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction.

Staff said the variance request addresses the UDO’s 30‑foot side yard setback requirement for agricultural zoning (Title 18), and that the proposed accessory structure otherwise meets development standards for size and height. The planner reported that a neighbor to the east, identified as Mr. Stewart, had reviewed plans and had no concerns.

Applicant Adam Miller said the existing driveway location required by the county highway department placed access at the crest of a hill and created a dangerous turn; he told the board the proposed relocated driveway and garage will improve ingress and egress, increase spacing from the septic field and avoid a frequently flooded area behind the house. “It’s kind of our last resort,” Miller said, describing topographic limits on where a garage can be sited.

Board members acknowledged the variance is large numerically but said it fits the rural/agricultural context and that the proposed garage would be about 60 feet from the nearest neighboring structure. Staff recommended approval and the board approved the accessory structure setback variance with no additional conditions. The applicant was told to contact planning staff when ready to pursue permits; staff noted the variance typically remains valid for 12 months without construction.