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Board of Zoning Appeals approves variances including inground pool on vacant lot amid debate
Summary
The Loudon County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special exception for an RV/boat storage site and several setback variances — and granted a variance that allows an inground pool installed on a vacant parcel after a stop‑work order, despite questions about future house construction and notable public remarks.
The Loudon County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) met and approved a series of special exceptions and variances, including a special exception for an open boat and RV storage facility and multiple setback variances. The most discussed item was a request to allow an inground pool on a parcel that currently has no primary dwelling.
Roll call confirmed members Ryan Bright, Jim Brooks, John Napier, Leon Shields and Mike Waller were present. The BZA approved a special exception for an open boat and RV storage facility proposed by applicants Luke Cirin and William Reddit at 8301 Jackson Ben Road; the applicants must still provide a site plan.
Several variances for residential garages and setbacks were granted, including a 4‑foot front/side variance for Taylor Bingham at 210 Hilltop Drive and a 4‑foot sideyard variance for Anthony (Tony) Brown, who said his HOA and neighbors had approved the garage placement.
The board also approved a sign variance for Highland Park Baptist Church to relocate and update an existing sign at 4333 Highway 11 to serve a new fellowship hall and parking area.
In the most extended discussion, Chris Jordan, representing 'Team Josh,' asked the board to allow an inground pool that had been started under a permit later found to contain incorrect parcel information. Jordan said the owners had already incurred significant costs: "We've taken on cost to do this... I've made a $26,000 down payment to the pool builder. I secured a $100,000 loan. We've taken out 700 ft of fence… and run water to the pool site." He said the pool would be privately owned and not visible from the road.
BZA members questioned the unusual sequence (pool before dwelling) and whether a future single‑story house could later be built on the same lot. Staff explained the parcel is vacant but part of a cluster of parcels the owners possess; building a house later would be possible but could require additional permitting or special exceptions depending on how lots are combined. After discussion, a motion to approve the variance passed.
Why it matters: Allowing a pool on a parcel without a primary dwelling is an atypical approval and raises questions about permitting accuracy, future development and precedent for other applicants who might start work before a dwelling permit is in place.
Next steps: Applicants who received approvals must submit required site plans or follow other staff conditions noted at the hearing. The BZA adjourned after concluding the agenda.
