Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Zoning Variance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves setback variances for Burr Oak cottage after applicant agrees to relocate air conditioner
Summary
After neighbors raised concerns about an air-conditioner unit and drainage, the Board of Adjustment approved setback variances for a Burr Oak Street cottage in Spirit Lake with a stipulation that the air conditioner be placed on the north side where a variance is not needed.
The Dickinson County Board of Adjustment on Oct. 27 approved setback variances for Charles and Susan Haugen’s lot at 21374 Burr Oak Street after the applicants agreed to relocate an air-conditioner unit to avoid infringing on a neighboring sunroom.
Nick Haugen and Stacey Tegtmeier of Beck’s Engineering said the cabin is currently not suitable for year-round occupancy and that the planned updates aim to create a one-floor ranch to accommodate aging family members. Neighbors Amanda and Robert Beller opposed the initial plan, saying an air-conditioner on the proposed side would face and affect a nearby sunroom and raised concerns about drainage.
Board members and staff discussed alternatives. At the resumed hearing later in the meeting, Nick Haugen stated he would move the unit to the north side, where a variance is not required, and add gutters directing runoff to reclaimed land. The board then approved the requested variances with the stipulation that the air-conditioner be located on the north side and with the adjusted front, side and rear yard relief as described by the applicant; the vote was 5-0.
Megan Kardell, the county’s planning and zoning administrator, clarified that air-conditioner units may project into front and rear setbacks but not side yards. The board’s approval allows the applicants to move forward with the house plan subject to compliance with the stipulated equipment placement and usual permitting.
