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Board grants variance to expand nonconforming garage at 1875 Beach Avenue, 4–2
Summary
The board approved a request to expand a nonconforming garage, adjust stairs and widen the driveway at 1875 Beach Avenue, finding the project moves the property closer to conformity and adds pervious surface; the motion passed 4–2 after discussion of historical structure and pervious materials.
The Community Development Board granted a variance to allow expansion of a nonconforming garage and related encroachments at 1875 Beach Avenue, approving four related requests by a 4–2 vote.
Amanda, neighborhoods director, told the board the property is oceanfront and technically nonconforming; staff found the earliest paperwork in the file dated 1987 but noted aerial photos showing the primary structure historically. The garage footprint includes corners just inches from the property line. The applicant seeks relief to expand and to place stairs and a wider driveway within those setbacks.
Architect Michael Dunlap said the proposal replaces the existing garage with new construction within the existing footprint, steps the west face back several feet and adds heated/cooled space above. He emphasized the plan increases pervious area by removing old concrete and installing a stabilized "grass road" product. "We're picking up more pervious area," Dunlap said, noting the grass product is roughly 50% pervious and will reduce impervious surface.
During deliberation some members said the project moves the property toward greater conformity and allows reasonable use of the lot; others worried about expanding a nonconforming silhouette. After discussion a motion to approve the four requests was made and seconded and the board approved the variance by a 4–2 vote.
What’s next: The applicant may move forward with building permits consistent with the approved variances and the presented plans; staff will monitor construction to ensure the pervious surfacing and setback adjustments follow the approved design.
