Board approves driveway-extension variance for Oxon Hill homeowner who paid fines and applied promptly

The Prince George's County Board of Appeals approved a variance Wednesday for Mateo Acuna of 309 Ferndale Place in Oxon Hill to validate a 10-foot-by-23-foot unauthorized driveway extension and parking-pad work.

Acuna said the work was done because the original driveway was too narrow and unsafe for two cars; he testified that after the county issued a violation on May 28 he applied for relief and paid fines and fees within 24 hours. "We applied over for a variance and permit, and paid all the fees and fines up to date with DPIE," Acuna said. Inspector Craig Johnson confirmed he issued a DDN building-violation notice following a service request; Johnson also provided photos and the service-request history.

Vice Chair Johnston and other members asked clarifying questions about whether the pad would be paved; Acuna said it would remain gravel. The board found the applicant acted in good faith on a narrow, sloping lot and approved the variance by a 3-0 vote. The board noted the applicant still must complete required permitting steps with the county.