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Board approves rear-yard driveway/garage variance at 3828 Ivanhoe with condition barring visible outdoor storage
Summary
The zoning board granted George Wilson Jr. a variance to continue a side driveway/garage extension at 3828 Ivanhoe Drive on condition that vehicles and large equipment not be stored visibly in the side/rear yard; staff raised drainage concerns and neighbors submitted late letters opposing visible parking.
The Lorain Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance request Jan. 7 to allow a side-drive extension and garage access that effectively permits rear-yard vehicular access at 3828 Ivanhoe Drive. Applicant George Wilson Jr. said the work is intended to extend a permitted concrete side surface so he can move vehicles into an enclosed garage and stop parking in the yard.
Staff and board members discussed three late letters submitted on Jan. 5 from adjacent neighbors who oppose rear-yard parking, saying it would harm property values and create eyesores. Engineering staff warned that the new surface will require attention to drainage — downspouts from the proposed structure may not discharge onto adjacent properties and elevation changes may be necessary to prevent runoff onto neighbors’ lawns.
Board members asked whether commercial-class vehicles would be stored; staff clarified that Class 4–8 commercial vehicles are not allowed in side or rear yards and that the board could attach conditions restricting outdoor storage. One board member moved to approve with the condition that no outdoor storage of vehicles or equipment be permitted as part of this project, "as much as we're allowed to enforce that." The motion was seconded and carried (ayes recorded; no opposed votes announced).
Next steps: Building department will process the garage permit and staff will review engineered drainage details prior to final sign-off.
