Council OKs variance to build 249 Station Lane home closer to center of pie-shaped lot

The DeBary City Council voted to approve a requested five-foot variance from the seven-foot front build-to line for 249 Station Lane in the Spring Walk at The Junction subdivision.

City staff, represented by Growth Management Director Stephen Bap, told council the lot is pie-shaped and narrower than typical neighborhood lots (20.23 feet at its narrowest versus a typical 32 feet), and that strict enforcement of the seven-foot build-to line would require deviation from the recorded preliminary plat. "This variance is the minimum necessary to accomplish the construction of a structure on the single-family lot and still be consistent with the vision of the preliminary plat and the character of the neighborhood," Bap testified.

The applicant, Tim Durkin of Mercedes Premier Homes, confirmed the proposed orientation faces the neighborhood retention pond and that the layout supports the public walkway around the lake. A nearby resident, Joshua Ellen of 253 Station Lane, spoke in favor of keeping the lot and home oriented toward the pond and said the proposed placement preserves neighborhood aesthetics and property values.

Council members asked clarifying questions about side-yard setbacks and compliance. Staff and the applicant said the proposal meets side-yard minimums; Council Member Papalardo confirmed the minimum side setback would be four feet at the narrow corner.

Council voted unanimously to grant the variance. If the variance is recorded, staff said the city manager will issue the development order within three business days and the applicant may proceed with building-plan processing and permit issuance.

The variance was recommended for approval by the Development Review Committee on Aug. 5, 2025, according to staff.