Delafield board grants limited variance for second‑story addition on Lakeview Court

The Delafield Zoning Board of Appeals on Nov. 26 granted in part a variance for 2378 Lakeview Court, allowing a second‑story addition within the home’s existing footprint while excluding a proposed vestibule that would expand the footprint into the 50‑foot shore‑yard setback.

Attorney Tim Langer and contractor Matt Serra told the board the lot sits on a peninsula that leaves only about 127 square feet of systematic "buildable area" after applying the 50‑foot shore setback, and that the proposed work would not increase impervious surface or bring the house closer to the lake. Owner Christy Maso described family and accessibility needs — including remodeling to accommodate a parent with mobility issues — as part of the rationale for the changes.

City staff described a May 2024 ordinance amendment that tightened the rules for vertical additions to nonconforming structures; board members noted that the amendment had not yet been fully reflected on the third‑party online code host commonly used by prospective buyers and builders. The board concluded the lot’s peninsula configuration and the timing of the ordinance amendment supported a grant of limited relief while preserving the intent of the shoreland regulations.

The board’s order grants the variance only for a second‑floor addition within the existing boundary, and imposes conditions: revised plans must be submitted and approved by the building inspector; no further exterior expansions are permitted unless the zoning code changes; and a typewritten decision will be recorded, with the applicant responsible for register‑of‑deeds filing fees. The board approved the decision form and recorded the order by voice vote.