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Board recommends variances, flags second‑floor setback and height issues for 1519 NE 18th
Summary
During first‑review of a proposed new home at 1519 NE 18th, the board advised the applicant to consider front/setback variances and design changes to avoid second‑floor setback and overall height conflicts with Zone A restrictions.
Board members advised the applicant for 1519 NE 18th that the lot’s Zone A rules (50‑foot setback) and an irregular lot orientation could require formal variances to accommodate the proposed design.
The chair explained the lot is unusual and that neighboring properties have 30‑foot setbacks, telling the applicant, "I think you have a really strong case to ask for a variance," and walked through alternatives including pursuing a front setback variance or redesigning the plan to retain side setbacks and reduce second‑floor encroachments. Members also discussed overall height calculations and a tower element that may exceed the stated 30‑foot top‑of‑roof dimension depending on elevation base points.
Staff encouraged the applicant to return with clarified elevation measurements, setback diagrams, and any variance requests rather than proceeding without formal relief. The board suggested possible options — moving pool placement, altering second‑floor massing, or requesting a hardship variance — and asked the applicant to present revised plans at the next review.
Next steps: applicant to consult with architect, consider filing formal variance requests where needed, update the plan set with clarified elevations and setback notations, and return for the second review.
