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Zoning board approves variances to allow second‑story addition at 1402 Donald Avenue in Royal Oak City
Summary
The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved variances to expand a nonconforming single‑family house at 1402 Donald Ave, allowing a second‑floor addition that reduces the west side and front yard setbacks by modest amounts.
The Royal Oak City Zoning Board of Appeals voted to approve variances allowing a second‑story addition at 1402 Donald Avenue.
Planning staff described the site as a corner lot with an existing nonconforming west side yard of about 6.75 feet (the minimum is 8 feet) and a front yard that would be reduced from 30 feet to approximately 28.5 feet after the proposed second‑story addition. Petitioner Paul Over, representing Diamond Developments, said the homeowners, Sean and Stacy Lapine, want the modest expansion to create a primary bedroom, an updated bathroom and an additional bedroom for a growing family.
Over told the board the requested changes are intended to be in character with the neighborhood and to avoid forcing the family to move. "They love this home ... they just had their third child," Over said, urging the board to grant the practical accommodation. Board members debated a small bay projection on the front elevation; the petitioner acknowledged the projection was primarily aesthetic and could be removed if necessary.
A motion to approve the variances was made, seconded and carried by voice vote after members characterized the requests as minimal adjustments to existing nonconforming conditions and beneficial to streetscape character. Chair called for the ayes and the motion carried; the applicants were congratulated after the vote.
The approval allows the homeowner to proceed with the second‑story design as presented, subject to any building‑permit, plan‑review and county inspection requirements that may follow.
