Commissioners deny variance for carport at 192 Emerald Lane in Roper

The Washington County Board of Commissioners, sitting as the Board of Adjustment, denied a variance request July 7 from Mr. and Mrs. Garris for a carport at 192 Emerald Lane in Roper.

The hearing opened after the applicants and an adjoining property owner were sworn in. County staff reported that a survey showed the structure sits 28 inches from the neighboring lot line, while the Zoning Ordinance requires an 8-foot side-yard setback. The applicants said they moved to the property in 2024, placed the carport on a narrow lot to protect vehicles and acknowledged they did not follow the proper permitting channels. The adjoining owner, Cindy Styons Furlough, produced a survey and told the Board she had not approved any encroachment.

County staff told the Board they followed statute and ordinance in responding to the complaint. Commissioners voiced sympathy for the applicants but emphasized adherence to the ordinance. Commissioner John C. Spruill moved to deny the variance; Commissioner Ann C. Keyes seconded. The vote passed with four ayes and one abstention by Commissioner Tracey A. Johnson.

The Board closed the quasi-judicial hearing and adjourned the Board of Adjustment. County staff noted applicants may wish to consult a lawyer about next steps; enforcement and any remedies will follow the county's zoning and appeals processes.