The Rapid City Zoning Board of Adjustment on Nov. 7 approved a variance allowing a proposed two‑story single‑family residence to sit closer to property lines than zoning normally permits.

Cassie Hayes, current planner, told the board the applicant seeks to reduce the front setback from 25 feet to 14 feet, the rear setback from 25 feet to 6 feet and to increase maximum lot coverage from 30% to 33% to accommodate a 70‑by‑30 foot home with a 2,100‑square‑foot footprint (4,200 square feet total across two stories). She said the 50‑by‑130 foot corner parcel lies in the M Hill Overlay and is constrained by undeveloped adjacent parcels and a drainage feature, reducing viable building area.

Neighbors and members of the board questioned massing and separation. Rex Peregrine, who owns the lot immediately north, said the proposed two‑story house “would infringe on my property a little bit more” and urged the board to consider grade and sightlines. The board heard from the building official that ordinance separation rules normally require an 8‑foot side setback for single‑story structures and 12 feet for two‑story separations, and that noncombustible materials and building‑official review can mitigate separation concerns.

After discussion, commissioners proposed a compromise to split the 20 feet of build‑to allowance into 10 feet to the north and 10 feet to the south and to keep lot coverage at 33%. Commissioner Kelly moved to approve the variance with those provisions; Vince seconded. The board added a stipulation that the north elevation remain as presented (limiting additional windows or second‑story decks) and that the garage be side‑loading so vehicles do not overhang the right‑of‑way. The motion passed unanimously.

The approval includes conditions intended to preserve future right‑of‑way and minimize impacts to the neighboring property, and the variance will run with the property. The applicant may proceed to building‑permit review subject to the listed stipulations.