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BZA approves ADU conversion for Hannon garage with reduced setbacks and permeable‑surface conditions
Summary
The board approved converting a damaged detached garage at 711 S. Fess Ave. into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), granting reduced side setbacks to match the existing nonconforming structure and requiring permeable pavers and removal of a concrete slab to reduce impervious cover.
The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance Nov. 1 permitting Michael and Lindsey Hannon to convert a storm‑damaged detached garage at 711 South Fess Avenue into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), with modified side‑yard setbacks and conditions to reduce impervious surface coverage.
City staff described the garage as legal nonconforming (about 1.5 feet from the alley) and said repairing and adding a second story to create an ADU would, in any case, require setback relief. Staff recommended approval, noting the conversion would likely improve neighborhood housing opportunities and would reduce impervious surface percentage by removing certain walks and slabs.
The board approved reduced side setbacks to 3 feet on the north property line and 1.5 feet on the east line (matching existing setbacks), required the pedestrian walk between the ADU and primary dwelling be replaced with permeable pavers, and ordered removal and replacement of an approximately 75 sq. ft. concrete slab north of the ADU with green space.
Petitioner Michael Hannon told the board the detached garage was struck by large limbs during a summer storm and that neighbors provided letters of support. The motion was adopted by roll call; staff will verify conditions during permitting.
