Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Accessory Dwelling topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board approves exterior stair variance for accessory dwelling at Pine Drive, 5–4
Summary
After debate about internal stairs and flood‑zone constraints, the zoning board approved a 4.5‑foot side‑setback variance to allow exterior stairs to a new accessory living unit at 4195 Pine Drive by a 5–4 vote.
The Horry County Zoning Board approved a variance allowing exterior stairs for an accessory living unit at 4195 Pine Drive, Little River, by a 5–4 vote. Staff explained the lot satisfies minimum parcel size for an accessory dwelling unit but the proposed deck and stairs encroach 3 feet from the right side property line where 7.5 feet is required, producing a 4.5-foot variance request.
Applicant Katie Bjorn told the board, “I’m asking for a variance, for the stairs… Obviously, the stairs, if they go on the other side, they’ll be blocking an entrance to my house.” Board members discussed alternatives including internal stairs, rear stairs and flood‑zone constraints; one member noted internal stairs would consume most usable space. After a motion to approve with staff conditions, the board voted 5 to 4 to grant the variance.
Why it mattered: The approval allows the applicant to place stairs on the side of a narrow new upstairs living area rather than sacrifice interior square footage, balancing habitability against neighborhood setback rules.
