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Planning commission approves variance allowing 22‑foot driveway at 213 N. Sarwil Dr.
Summary
The Canal Winchester Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5–0 June 8 to grant a variance permitting a 22‑foot driveway at 213 N. Sarwil Dr., concluding the installation is consistent with surrounding homes platted before the 2019 Residential Appearance Standards.
The Canal Winchester Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5–0 on June 8 to approve Variance Application VA‑26‑010, allowing a driveway that measures 22 feet at the right‑of‑way at 213 N. Sarwil Dr., exceeding the 10‑foot maximum set by Chapter 1198 Residential Appearance Standards.
Commission staff said the subject parcel is Lot 227 in Winchester Village Section 2, a 0.23‑acre lot platted and developed in the 1990s. Staff noted the neighborhood was not required to meet the 2019 Residential Appearance Standards and argued a strict, literal application of the code would place this property at a disadvantage compared with neighboring homes built before the standards took effect.
"The driveway that was installed does not match the approved site plans," staff told the commission, but recommended approval on the basis that similar driveway widths exist in the neighborhood and the variance would not permit a new or otherwise prohibited use. Staff also noted the lot is 84 feet wide and that on‑street parking would remain adequate despite the wider driveway.
Chairman Joe Donahue clarified the neighborhood’s 1990s development predated the 2019 standards. Vice Chair Deborah McDonnell asked staff to clarify easement protections and what would happen if a water or sewer line under the driveway required repair; staff said easement language governs those situations. The applicant, Wade Jordan, said a 10‑foot driveway would still cover the easement and that concrete could be removed for access if needed.
Eileen Goodin moved to close the public hearing; Deborah McDonnell seconded and the motion carried 5–0. McDonnell then moved to approve the variance as presented, seconded by Steve Palsgrove. The approval carried with votes from Donahue, Goodin, McDonnell, Deeds and Palsgrove. Brad Richey and Joe Wildenthaler were recorded as excused earlier in the meeting.
The commission’s action resolves the variance request for VA‑26‑010; no additional conditions or effective dates were recorded in the minutes. The file will proceed per standard administrative follow‑up and building permit processes.
