Commission approves 53‑foot setback variance for porch at Lake Kiwatan property

The Forest Lake Planning Commission on April 8 approved a variance allowing an attached porch at 20703 Kiwatan Avenue North to sit 47 feet from the ordinary high‑water level, a 53‑foot reduction from the city’s 100‑foot shoreline setback.

Planning staff described the lot as nonconforming within the Shoreland Overlay District, noting an existing house has occupied the lot since at least 1959 and prior variances and approvals (1991 and 2003) are on record. Staff recommended approval with conditions — including compliance with the Comfort Lake‑Forest Lake watershed district standards and a one‑year period to exercise the variance — because an otherwise permitted single‑family use appears reasonable and the lot configuration predated the current owner.

Applicant and property owner Bill Witrock told the commission he purchased the property in 1989, described its historical development, and said he had reduced the footprint from a prior proposal while using permeable pavers and other measures to limit impervious surface. Witrock said the proposed porch was designed to avoid removing trees and to better reflect current shoreline protection expectations.

After brief discussion, the commission voted 5–1 to approve the variance (Resolution 04‑08‑26‑02). Commissioner Steeler cast the dissenting vote. Staff and the applicant confirmed the decision is final at the commission level and does not require City Council approval; the project will proceed next through required watershed and building permit reviews.