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James Island BZA unanimously approves variance for Sterling Drive carport, adds condition to keep it open
Summary
The Town of James Island Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance to reduce a corner-lot setback for a carport at 668 Sterling Drive (case BZAV-3-26-048), granting the request with staff-recommended conditions plus a requirement that the carport remain open and as built.
The Town of James Island Board of Zoning Appeals on May 19 approved a variance allowing a carport addition at 668 Sterling Drive, reducing the corner-lot setback from 25 feet to roughly 15 feet. The motion, made and seconded during a public hearing, passed unanimously.
Chair David Savage opened the hearing and staff entered application materials and a supplemental support letter into the record. Planning Director Kristen Crane presented staff findings and recommended conditions. Applicant Laura Bauer, who gave her address as 668 Sterling Drive and said she’s lived there about 25 years, told the board she needs covered parking to protect vehicles from large oak limbs and storm debris: “I just really wanna put a carport up there.”
Brett Eisenhower, the project’s structural design engineer, testified the carport corner would encroach roughly 10–12 feet beyond the labeled setback and estimated the on-site overhang at about 12 feet. The board questioned whether alternatives — moving the carport, altering the wraparound porch, or adding a breezeway — would avoid the setback; Eisenhower and the applicant said those options either still encroached or would materially change the house.
Commissioners discussed the ordinance’s seven criteria (town ordinance section 153.049). Members found that practical difficulty (factor C) and the history cited by the applicant (factor F) supported relief. Vice Chair Roy Smith raised a concern that a future owner might enclose the structure; Smith asked for language ensuring the structure remain an open carport. The board added a condition that the carport must remain open and as constructed in addition to the staff-recommended conditions.
The board then voted by roll call; the secretary recorded unanimous approval. Chair Savage said the written final decision will be mailed within 10 working days and directed questions about conditions to Planning and Zoning staff. The case number is BZAV-3-26-048.
