Zoning board grants Will family 2% coverage variance for new deck, with condition that it remain unenclosed

The Haverford Township Zoning Hearing Board voted 3-0 on Aug. 6, 2026 to grant a dimensional variance allowing David and Laura Will to increase building coverage from 15% to 17% at 3037 Robin Lane to accommodate a new deck and patio. Attorney Jim Byrne presented the application and the board approved the request subject to conditions limiting enclosure and specifying a one-year completion requirement.

Byrne said the proposed project is a dimensional variance under Hertzberg standards and described the scope: a new flagstone patio and deck area with an uncovered section and a fireplace. He told the board the applicants retained an engineer (Dave Lisonbee) who advised that the proposed stormwater measures — an underground bed of stone and pipes — would meet township stormwater-management standards. Byrne also offered neighbor consents for the project. The applicants and counsel agreed to a condition that the deck not be enclosed. As one condition states plainly: “The deck will not be enclosed now or at any point in the future.”

Board members confirmed utilities (gas, water, electric) would be run to the site, asked that the deck not be enclosed, and noted the lot is slightly undersized, which affects the coverage calculation. The board admitted exhibits into the record, including site plans, architectural renderings and neighbor petition letters, and closed public testimony after none was offered. Kevin Wilson moved to grant the variance with the stated conditions; Jessica Vitale concurred and the motion passed 3-0. The board directed the project to be completed within one year and in accordance with the testimony.