Board of Zoning Appeals approves side-setback variance for Greentop lot

The Board of Zoning Appeals voted to grant a side-setback variance for a Greentop lot, reducing side setbacks from 15 feet to 10 feet.

The applicant, identified in the meeting as Mr. Matthew, said the lot is an older lot of record and asked the board for the limited variance "strictly just for the sides, to go from a 15 foot setback to a 10 foot setback." Amanda Harrington, the board's consultant, told the panel the request was the smallest variance necessary and "not out of line compared to the average of the other setbacks in the area," and staff "respectfully recommends granting of the variance." Chair members recorded the plat of record dated 1954 and referenced the county zoning ordinance (1999) during the discussion.

Board members and staff discussed the submitted site plan and safety spacing. Staff and other members noted that where a lot has two road frontages, the applicable front setback must be observed and that fire-code guidance requires roughly 10 feet between structures; the proposed 10-foot side setbacks were described as meeting that spacing. After a brief exchange of clarifying questions about the site plan and frontage, Mark made the motion to approve the variance and Eric seconded. The board conducted a voice vote; the chair called for those in favor to say "aye," heard an "aye," and declared the motion carried.

The board moved on to its scheduled training after the vote; no further conditions or appeals were recorded in the meeting minutes during this item.