El Paso Zoning Board approves multiple setback exceptions and conditions for carports and canopies

The El Paso Zoning Board of Adjustment on Nov. 10 approved a slate of special-exception requests to legalize existing and proposed encroachments — chiefly carports, canopies and additions that extend into required front, side or rear yard setbacks — while attaching conditions to ensure materials, drainage and permitting compliance.

Staff presentations during the meeting described each site, the encroachment measurements and whether aerial photos showed the structures existed long enough to qualify for Special Exception K (structures in existence 15 years or more) or met criteria for Special Exception B (two or more nonconforming lots). Andrew Sloan of Planning and Inspections told the board that, for one application, an accessory structure encroached 74.51 square feet into a side setback and a home portion encroached 2.14 feet; staff recommended approval of Special Exceptions B and K for that property (North of Mesa east of Shadow Mountain Drive).

Several applicants and neighbors spoke in favor of approvals, and applicants…