BZA grants variance to Nardulis for detached garage, prohibits conversion to dwelling

Jamie Narduli, appearing remotely, asked the Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance to allow a detached garage in the side yard because the rear of the lot drops into a ravine and cannot accommodate the structure. "We're unable to put that garage behind the house," Narduli said, describing topography and the desire to keep trees and avoid significant grading.

A staff member clarified the board must condition any approval to prohibit conversion of the accessory structure to a dwelling because the rezoning and district do not allow accessory dwelling units on the property. "They are not allowed to make this into an accessory dwelling unit," staff said, asking the board to include that condition in any approval.

A motion to grant the variance with the staff condition passed on roll-call vote; members indicated the variance was warranted by hardship resulting from slope and lot configuration. The variance is limited to storage and vehicle use and the condition will be recorded with the permit.