Board grants side-yard variance to attach gazebo in Whitehorse Park; applicant says lot constraints predate ownership

The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance on June 11 to permit an attached gazebo at 235 White Pine Lane in Whitehorse Park (case 26-29).

Applicant Tina Marie Niemeyer, who identified herself and gave her address for the record, told the board the lot and existing shed had been in place before she bought the property in 2019 and that the proposed gazebo would be slightly smaller than an existing structure on the site. “We’re asking for a variance so that we can have a 10 by 12 gazebo,” Niemeyer said, adding that the gazebo would be attached to a covered entrance so the property could retain two required on-site parking spaces.

Board members and staff questioned attachment details and wind resistance, and staff clarified how the three-foot separation requirement is measured (measured to structures such as steps and landings). A staff member noted the county allows hand-drawn site plans in some cases and that an as-built survey may be required before a building permit is issued. The applicant said her proposed attachment would set posts on an existing concrete patio and that she planned to use PVC and paint to match existing finishes.

Action: A board member moved to approve the variance as applied for; a second was recorded and the motion carried. The board discussed ensuring structural attachment and that permit/inspection steps will follow prior to any covered construction.

Next steps: Staff will record conditions for the building permit and may require as-built verification or a survey before final permit approval.