Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves rear‑yard variance for Ocean Pines home to accommodate deck
Summary
The Board granted a rear‑yard variance at 35 Robin Hood Trail to allow a deck that encroaches 3.4 feet into the rear setback; the applicant presented construction delays and medical circumstances as part of her justification.
The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals on April 10 approved a rear‑yard variance for a deck at 35 Robin Hood Trail to reduce the required rear setback from 30 feet to 26.6 feet, an encroachment of 3.4 feet.
Applicant Maria Guento told the board the house was built in 1990 and later additions and renovations, including stairs, resulted in the rear stairs encroaching over the setback. She described a construction history with a contractor change, work stoppages and permit transfers—the original permit was issued March 15, 2023, then taken over by a new contractor in mid‑2024. Guento said she had approval from her homeowners’ association’s architectural review committee and that the lot backs onto a ditch and wooded trail so the deck would not overlook neighboring rear yards.
Guento also described a recent medical issue that affects her mobility and said the deck would allow safer, single‑level living and care of grandchildren. The board asked about contractor licensing; Guento testified both contractors had Maryland Home Improvement licenses, the second obtained within the last year.
No one in the audience testified against the variance. A motion to approve the request as applied carried; the board recorded no opposition. County staff will process any required permits and inspections before final approval.
