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Fargo commission grants variance for addition at 1123 6th Street South
Summary
The commission approved an appeal of a Historic Preservation Commission decision and granted a variance and certificate of appropriateness to allow a modestly taller addition on a home at 1123 6th Street South, citing building code and egress concerns and staff communication lapses.
The Fargo City Commission voted to grant a variance and a certificate of appropriateness for work at 1123 6th Street South after staff presented that an addition under construction exceeded the historic overlay roof-height standard by approximately 5–8 inches.
Planning staff explained the owner initially received a certificate of appropriateness, secured a building permit and began construction. A later inspection found changes on site, including a slightly increased roof height that conflicts with the historic overlay standards though it complied with the building code. Staff told the commission inspections and egress requirements had driven some of the changes and recommended the commission consider the variance so the homeowner could occupy the house.
Commissioners questioned the enforcement mechanisms in the historic preservation ordinance and noted communication lapses among multiple city staff contacts that contributed to the situation. Several members expressed support for allowing the investment to proceed, characterizing the project as a worthwhile family home improvement and noting the limited practical enforcement options available under current ordinances.
A motion to approve the appeal and grant the variance and certificate was moved and seconded and passed on a roll call vote with ayes recorded.
What’s next: Staff indicated this topic will be considered in upcoming Land Development Code outreach and amendments; the city will review historic preservation standards as part of the LDC revision process.
