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Royal Oak board approves variance for homeowner’s covered porch at 412 Midland Boulevard
Summary
A homeowner seeking privacy for a newborn was granted three variances — rear setback, side-yard setback and lot coverage — after the zoning board concluded the modest covered porch would not materially alter neighborhood character. The board approved the request by unanimous voice vote; the owner must obtain permits and meet building codes.
A Royal Oak homeowner seeking a covered rear porch won approval for three variances from the zoning board after the panel concluded the modest structure would not harm the neighborhood.
The petitioner, the owner of 412 Midland Boulevard, told the board the rear yard is exposed to a public alley and adjacent commercial parking and said the covered porch is intended primarily for family privacy and safe use with a newborn. "My wife wants an enclosed covered porch so that she can take our daughter out," the petitioner said.
Staff described three variances required for the project: a reduction of the 35-foot rear-yard setback by roughly 10 1/2 feet, a reduction of the 5-foot side-yard setback to 3 feet, and a small increase in lot coverage above the city's 30 percent limit. Board members asked technical questions about whether a retractable awning or a clipped corner could reduce the relief required and confirmed that, if a variance is granted, the petitioner must apply for building permits and comply with building and fire-code requirements.
After brief discussion about unique lot conditions (narrow lot with alley access), a board member moved to approve the variances; the motion was seconded and the board voted in the affirmative by voice. The petitioner was advised to file the necessary permit applications with the Building Department.
The approval was unanimous and the board characterized the request as a modest relief that preserves neighborhood character while addressing privacy and safety needs for the homeowner’s family.
