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Board denies attached pergola/awning variance at Northeast 30 Eighth Street
Summary
The Board of Adjustment denied a variance request for an attached pergola/awning at Northeast 30 Eighth Street, finding that the claimed hardship was self-created and that a freestanding pergola alternative could be pursued.
Agent Dwayne Shaw asked the board to permit an attached pergola (treated by staff as an awning) to be set 15 feet from the principal structure rather than the 25-foot setback the code requires for an attached structure. Shaw said the lot is pie-shaped and that the owners wanted the structure attached to the house to maximize usable outdoor space directly off an existing door. The city informed the applicant that attached elements are measured under the code as awnings and therefore require a larger setback.
Board members questioned whether the applicant had explored a freestanding option; several members said the hardship appeared self-created because a freestanding pergola could accomplish much of the same function. After discussion, a motion to deny the variance carried on roll call. The chair noted the applicant retains the right to appeal to the City Commission.
