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Commission approves front-yard variance for covered patio at 408 W. Twelfth
Summary
The Mitchell Planning Commission approved a variance allowing a 12-by-14-foot covered patio to encroach into the front-yard setback at 408 West Twelfth. Commissioners said the applicant is under the lot-percentage limit and neighbors had submitted two letters in support.
The Mitchell Planning Commission on a voice and roll-call vote approved a variance that lets property owner Dennis Kaus place a 12-by-14-foot covered patio closer to the street than zoning normally allows at 408 West Twelfth.
Staff said the property is zoned R-4 (high-density residential) and that the applicant requested a 20-foot front-yard setback where 25 feet is required to accommodate the roofed patio. Staff noted two letters in the file supporting the request and that the applicant appeared to have measured from the back of the boulevard rather than the property line when planning the project.
Neighbors and commissioners asked whether the work would replace an existing deck and whether the roofed structure could later be enclosed. The owner’s representative said the addition would be a roof only — “No sides enclosing, just a roof.” Commissioners noted the structure would still put the building closer to neighboring houses but that the lot coverage would remain within the allowable percentage for R-4.
After questions about how the proposed patio would align with adjacent homes, a commissioner moved to approve the variance; another seconded and the motion carried. The commission did not attach additional conditions beyond the variance approval. The applicant may proceed subject to any building-permit requirements.
The commission’s action was procedural; no ordinance or broader policy change was considered. The meeting record shows the variance was approved by roll call after public discussion and neighbor comments.
