Board denies variance for unauthorized sunroom in Landover, citing criteria not met

Jan. 14, 2026 — The Prince George's County Board of Appeals denied a variance request from Derek Folifak for an unauthorized sunroom, accessory building and deck at 7119 East Cedar Street in Landover.

Folifak asked the board to validate existing conditions and permit a 180-square-foot sunroom, a 250-square-foot accessory building and a 240-square-foot deck. The petition listed requested variances including 1,283 square feet of net lot area and a lot width reduction to 15 feet; the petitioner said he had already constructed the improvements before realizing a permit was required and had begun the county's permit process after being cited.

At the hearing, Folifak apologized and said, "the project was done before, without a payment. So I'm sorry for that," and explained he had used a contractor who he said did not inform him a permit was required. County inspector Swan testified the accessory structure is a violation, that the structure is oversized and will require a permit, and that the inspection followed a complaint the county received through 311.

Board members questioned whether the lot was unique or presented topographical constraints and observed the lot "looked very similar to surrounding properties." Vice Chair Johnston moved to deny v74-25, saying the variance criteria had not been met; Member Stanton seconded. The roll call showed three "Aye" votes and the motion to deny carried 3-0.

The board advised Folifak to follow up with staff for next steps in resolving the violation and any permit requirements. The petitioner acknowledged the ruling and was excused.

The board reiterated that ignorance of permit requirements does not satisfy the "not self-inflicted" standard necessary to meet variance criteria under the county ordinance.