Commission recommends denial of exception to PD‑75 exterior‑materials rules for 370 Eva Place

The Rockwall Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denial of MIS2025‑018, a request to allow existing composite‑style siding to remain on a manufactured home at 370 Eva Place within Planned Development District (PD) 75, after staff said elevating the nonconforming structure triggers PD material requirements.

Staff presented the case and said the Board of Adjustments had approved elevating the home on stilts because the lot is in the floodplain, but staff asserted that the UDC requires a legally nonconforming structure that is expanded or altered to meet district design standards. Staff identified two applicable PD‑75 standards: a general 60% hardy‑board requirement for new single‑family construction and a 90% masonry requirement for manufactured‑home replacement scenarios. Staff also reported unpermitted site improvements (fire pit, bridge and new fence) and multiple citations for the property.

The applicant’s representative, Juan, said the existing siding is functional and that replacing it would create a significant financial burden for the owner, Noah Dawit. Commissioners asked about structural issues related to raising the home, whether stilts must be wrapped in masonry in the PD, and the visibility of mechanical and utility connections once the home is raised (staff said the floodplain prevents standard skirting and utilities would be visible). Commissioners also discussed prior, similar requests and noted that an earlier variance granted by the commission had later been denied by City Council.

After discussion, a motion to deny the exception was made and seconded; the motion carried 4‑3. The denial will be forwarded to City Council for consideration at the council’s next meeting.

Why it matters: The case clarifies how PD materials requirements apply when nonconforming structures are elevated or otherwise altered, affects one property in the Lake Rockwall State Subdivision (PD‑75) and will be considered by the City Council.

Next steps: Staff will forward the Planning and Zoning recommendation to City Council; any building permit or engineering work to elevate the home remains contingent on structural review and floodplain requirements.