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Knoxville BZA denies two residential variance requests, cites lack of demonstrated hardship
Summary
The board denied a rear‑setback addition request from a homeowner and variances for an expanded accessory structure/impervious coverage, saying alternative layouts or smaller changes were available and the applicants did not demonstrate the required hardship.
The Board of Zoning Appeals denied two residential variance requests after members concluded the applicants had not demonstrated the necessary hardship and alternatives appeared feasible.
In BZA260028, homeowner Doug Reynolds sought a rear‑yard addition and asked the board to reduce the rear setback to allow an extra bedroom. Reynolds said family circumstances and the house layout made the backyard addition the preferred option. Board members questioned whether alternatives — such as adding to the side of the house or reconfiguring HVAC placement — could avoid the need for a variance. The board concluded that enough land and other options existed and voted to deny the request for lack of demonstrated hardship; staff advised Reynolds on appeal procedures and next steps.
In BZA260030, homeowner Heather Broussard requested two variances to enlarge a detached accessory structure and to increase impervious coverage after prior renovations and a change from earlier R‑1 to R‑2 zoning. Broussard said the narrow lot, historic neighborhood configuration, and a utility pole in the rear constrained options. Board members noted the proposed accessory structure and increased impervious area pushed proportion rules that aim to prevent an accessory structure from becoming effectively a second house. They encouraged the applicant to consider a smaller detached structure, attaching a smaller garage, or using lower‑impervious paving alternatives; the board voted to deny the variance requests for lack of hardship.
