Boulder zoning board approves setback variance for 3210 Twentieth Street over neighbor objections

Chair Nikki McCord opened the meeting of the Board of Zoning Adjustments saying, "So, of course, we have 1 item tonight. That item is BOZ2025Dash0003, and that's our only item." The board approved the applicant's request to recognize and retain three additions at 3210 Twentieth Street by a 4–1 vote, with Nikki McCord casting the lone no vote.

The variance allows two attached covered patios and an attached single‑car garage/carport to remain at an east/rear setback of approximately 20.2 feet, where the R L 1 zoning district requires a 25‑foot rear yard setback. Robbie Wyler of Boulder Planning and Development Services summarized the case and staff recommendation, explaining the application is a continuation of a hearing that began April 8 and grew out of an enforcement referral after unpermitted work was discovered last year.

The board's decision follows staff findings that the property meets the three variance review criteria emphasized at the continued hearing. Wyler told the board that "physical circumstances or conditions to the property cannot reasonably be developed in conformity with the provisions of this chapter" while noting the lot is a corner parcel with two front yards and an unusual house orientation that narrows buildable area on the south side.

Applicant representatives said the work responds to safety and weather‑resiliency concerns and that they have pursued professional review and…