Homewood board approves side-yard variance to enclose Edgemoor carport

The Homewood Board of Zoning Adjustments approved a side-yard setback variance for 609 Edgemoor Drive on April 2, allowing the owners to enclose an existing carport to add living space.

Nick Halfacre, who said he and his wife Alexandra Halfacre have lived in Homewood for about 10 years, asked the board for roughly a 5-foot-7-inch variance because the existing carport slab and foundation predate the zoning ordinance and the layout limits where additional space can be added. “This is the simplest and most cost-effective way for us to enclose the existing footprint,” Halfacre said, noting the family is expanding and on a budget; he also said neighbors have provided written support, including Carrie Bowden, the property owner directly north of the Halfacres’ lot.

Board members questioned whether an addition to the rear had been considered; Halfacre said he and his wife had explored alternatives but preferred to maintain the neighborhood roofline and continuity by using the existing carport footprint. After questions, a board member moved and another seconded to approve BZA 26002609; the roll call recorded one member voting no and the remainder voting yes. The chair announced the motion had been approved and reminded the applicant they have 365 days to file for a permit.

The board’s approval allows the owners to pursue building permits to enclose the carport while noting conditions of the neighborhood’s character and the unchanged roof line and brick color described in the petitioner’s presentation. The applicant said the project footprint is modest and provided dimensions in the application packet to the board.