Board grants front-setback variance for Lusby lot to allow new house

The Board of Appeals approved a variance Oct. 1 allowing a reduced front setback at 12877 Calvert Terrace in Lusby so a new single-family dwelling may be built.

Roland June of Wilkerson & Associates represented property owner Dr. Shahab Motamedi and described lot constraints including steep slopes and limited space for well and septic locations. He said the owner replat two lots in 2024 to create a single buildable parcel (Lot 30 R) and that the requested 5-foot setback is the minimum needed to place a 51-by-21-foot house while meeting health-department setbacks. "We tried to work with Abby and Omar at the health department, and we tried to place the well... they said it would be impossible or too difficult for a drilling rig to get on such a steep incline to drill the well," Roland June said during his presentation.

The board reviewed findings that the hardship arises from the site's physical conditions, that the relief would not injure the public interest, and that the request is consistent with the comprehensive plan. The motion to grant the variance carried; the approval is subject to standard county permitting and inspections.