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Board approves setback variances and a second‑dwelling request for Barber Valley lot
Summary
Ada County commissioners approved a variance and accessory‑use permit allowing structures to encroach into setbacks and a secondary dwelling inside an accessory structure for property at 6439 E. Warm Springs Ave. Staff found the triangular lot and a prior variance justified the relief and that Central District Health approved the septic location.
Ada County commissioners on Wednesday approved a variance and accessory‑use permit that allow a property owner in the Barber Valley to place structures within standard setbacks and to add a secondary dwelling above a detached garage.
Staff presentation: Brent (Development Services) explained that the subject property is a legal nonconforming 0.83‑acre parcel in the Rural Preservation district, triangular in shape, and previously received a variance in 2020 reducing a south setback. The owner sought two new variances: (1) allow residential structures to encroach into required side and rear setbacks, and (2) allow an accessory structure with a second‑dwelling unit above a garage within the front yard area. Brent said Central District Health had approved a septic location in the middle of the site and that the proposed footprints comply with the county’s 20% lot coverage limit. He added that written neighbor objections raised issues including height and potential view impacts.
Why staff supported approval: Brent’s report concluded the variances did not grant a special privilege because single‑family dwellings and accessory dwellings are permitted uses in the zone, and a prior variance had been granted. Staff found the lot’s triangular shape and the approved septic location amounted to a practical hardship that justified the reduced setbacks and that agencies had not identified health or safety detriments.
Public input and neighborhood position: The Barber Valley Neighborhood Association provided written support and requested street‑tree plantings along Warm Springs Avenue similar to neighboring developments; two nearby property owners submitted written opposition raising concerns about setbacks, lot coverage, septic and view impacts. Brent said the lot is not encumbered by a private view easement and that the proposed site plan retains some sightlines toward the Boise River.
Board action: The board voted to approve the application, with a motion and second recorded and a voice vote carried. Staff noted conditions included a 24‑foot maximum accessory structure height and required building permits and standard engineering or septic approvals.
What this means: The applicant can proceed to building permit stage if they meet the conditions and obtain required permits. The decision runs with the land, meaning future property owners would inherit the approved site configuration unless the board later amends the approval.
Votes at a glance
- Application 2024‑02388 VAC (variance / accessory dwelling at 6439 E. Warm Springs Ave): motion to approve based on staff findings and discussion — outcome: approved (board vote).
