Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Special Exception topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission recommends special exception for carport at 11 Walden Grove
Summary
The Newport News Planning Commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval of special exception SE20250015, which would allow a 490-square-foot metal carport on a 2.17-acre R-3 property; the item is scheduled for the Board of Zoning Appeals on Dec. 16, 2025.
Chairperson Taylor announced the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of special exception SE20250015 on Nov. 19, 2025, advancing a proposal to add a 490-square-foot metal carport at a property listed as 11 Walden Grove.
Planner Mr. Sol told the commission the property is in an R-3 single-family district on a 2.17-acre lot and currently has three accessory structures (a 515-square-foot wood-frame garage, a 912-square-foot metal garage and a 262-square-foot shed). "The applicant is proposing to install an additional 490 square foot metal carport," Sol said, and added that under the zoning ordinance the carport is counted as a structure and regulated accordingly. The staff report recommended the Planning Commission forward approval of the special exception to the Board of Zoning Appeals, subject to standard conditions and a building permit from the Department of Code Compliance.
The applicant, who identified himself at the hearing as Chad McNish, said he was present to answer questions. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about placement and whether the carport would be located on an existing concrete pad. One commissioner characterized the carport as a secondary covered area in front of an existing two-car garage; Mr. McNish confirmed that description.
After the public hearing was closed, a motion to recommend approval was made and seconded. The commission voted by roll call and the motion carried unanimously, 6-0. Chairperson Taylor said the Board of Zoning Appeals will hear the case on Dec. 16, 2025.
The staff presentation cited relevant provisions of the zoning ordinance and referenced state code guidance for planning commissions. A building permit is required before installation of the accessory structure, and standard staff conditions listed in the report will apply.
Documents and testimony at the hearing included the staff report and the applicant's site plan; no members of the public spoke against the request during the public hearing.
The Planning Commission's vote is a recommendation to the Board of Zoning Appeals, which will make the final decision.
