Board grants driveway variance for Landover resident citing medical need

The Prince George's County Board of Appeals on Wednesday approved a variance that will allow a Landover homeowner to install a 10-by-33 driveway at 6904 Flagstaff Street.

Odessa Grant, the petitioner, told the board she has developed medical issues and often must park far from her home because nearby properties have multiple vehicles. “I am trying to get the a driveway put in because, lately, I've developed some medical issues,” Grant said while explaining that her lot lacks an existing driveway and is narrower than several neighboring lots.

The board reviewed the zoning variance criteria cited at the start of the hearing — including parcel uniqueness, disproportionate impact from strict application of the ordinance, and the absence of self-inflicted hardship — and questioned Grant about the lot’s age and neighboring driveways. Vice Chair Johnston said he agreed the lot was “unusually narrow.”

After discussion, Vice Chair Johnston moved to grant V‑19‑26, and Member Stanton seconded. The board administrator called the roll; the motion carried on a 3–0 vote.

Underboard procedure, approval of a variance does not replace other required reviews: a building permit must be obtained and a copy of the board’s written order must be presented to the county permits office before permits are processed.

The board excused the petitioner after the vote and said staff would follow up on next steps.