Hyattsville homeowners get variance to add one-story caregiver unit for aging parent

The Prince George's County Board of Appeals on Wednesday approved a variance request from Allison Roche and Eric Winkler of 6010 43rd Street, Hyattsville, to validate existing conditions and permit a one-story addition intended to provide a safe, accessible living space for the petitioners' elderly mother.

Roche told the board the addition is necessary so her mother can live nearby and that the family has invested substantial work into the property since they bought it in 2016. "We are making this request in order to enable us to provide a safe and accessible place for my mom to live," Roche said. Architect Michael Romero said the plan removes a deteriorated porch, minimizes visual impact from the street, and includes design features to accommodate mobility needs; he noted preliminary, positive comments from the county's historic-review contact.

Neighbor Anne Williams expressed support while asking about fence proximity and noise; the architect confirmed the rear corner of the addition will be about 20 feet 4 inches from the rear property line and that the addition will not increase the main building height. After board questions about topography and whether the condition was self-inflicted, Member Stanton moved to approve and Vice Chair Johnston seconded; the motion passed 3-0.

The board advised the petitioners that a historic-area work permit will be required if staff grants final approval and that the applicants must obtain any necessary building permits.