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Owner says termites led to after‑the‑fact demolition at 406 Avenue A; commission flags setback and zoning constraints
Summary
Property owners told the Historic Preservation Commission they demolished a termite‑damaged historic garage and want to rebuild a similar structure; staff said the existing slab reaches the property line and that zoning setbacks may require moving the new building or seeking planning‑and‑zoning relief.
At the New Bern Historic Preservation Commission’s July work session, owners of 406 Avenue A described an after‑the‑fact demolition of a historic garage and discussed options for rebuilding.
Property owner Mark DeBajan told the commission he and his contractor discovered extensive termite damage and removed the garage; staff clarified there was an application fee of $500 for the after‑the‑fact paperwork, not a penalty fine. The owner asked to reconstruct a historically accurate garage on the existing slab, which remains in place.
Commissioners and staff flagged a zoning setback constraint: the slab extends to the property line and local rules generally require a three‑foot setback from the property boundary for new construction. Staff explained the commission does not control zoning setbacks — that falls to planning and zoning and, if necessary, the board of adjustment. Options discussed included reconstructing a smaller building to meet setback rules, adding slab area on the other side to match the footprint, or approaching planning and zoning for relief; staff requested a survey and clearer site plans before a hearing.
The contractor (self‑identified as Jason Holton) explained materials and detail plans: a panel‑lock standing seam metal roof, 7‑inch smart‑lap siding (OSB‑based product with factory finish), 1x6 trim and proposed window and door details. Commissioners asked the applicant to include detailed material notes, trim dimensions and sash profiles on the drawings so the matter can proceed to a hearing if necessary. No formal action was taken at the work session.
