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Board approves screened-porch variance at 313 Deer Drive; applicants cite health and insect problems
Summary
The board unanimously approved a variance to enclose an existing 21-by-8 deck at 313 Deer Drive (total disturbance 184 sq ft with roof overhang). Applicant John Simpson cited sun, insects, and a personal health condition as justification; staff emphasized mitigation and proximity to Mill Creek in findings, but the board granted the variance with no added conditions.
The Calvert County Board of Appeals on Oct. 3 approved a variance allowing conversion of an existing 21-by-8-foot deck to a screened porch at 313 Deer Drive in Lusby. The board voted 3-0 to grant the variance after reading findings centered on site conditions and mitigation expectations.
Applicant John Simpson said the deck gets long periods of sun and, crucially, suffers heavy insect presence at night that makes the space unusable for much of the year. "I have a lot of skin cancer issues," Simpson said in explaining why an enclosed porch is necessary for his personal health and outdoor use. Simpson said many neighbors have screened porches and that he would comply with any necessary runoff controls for the added roof over the deck.
Staff and a committee member outlined findings noting the lot's proximity to Mill Creek and the importance of mitigation to protect water quality. The board's formal findings described a total disturbed area—counting the roof overhang—of about 184 square feet and characterized the screened porch as modest in size and consistent with similar variances granted in the county. Although staff comments emphasized mitigation expectations to protect sensitive environmental features, the motion to grant the variance was made and seconded with no conditions attached; the board then voted unanimously.
Simpson thanked the board after the vote. Staff marked exhibits, including field photos and maps, and confirmed public-notice requirements were met on this case as well. The board will issue a written order in accordance with its procedures.
