Board approves deck variance on corner lot after applicant cites internal circulation and neighbor coordination

The Board of Adjustment approved a practical-difficulty variance to allow construction of an elevated, unroofed deck at 8350 Bokea Drive that will extend to about 11.08 feet from a front property line where 20 feet is required. Staff had asked the applicants to explain why the deck could not be located on the other fronting side of the corner lot, which would not require relief.

Applicant Megan Grant said the proposed deck location keeps living-space circulation away from the busier street frontage and would not intrude on a neighbor’s pool area. She told the board she discussed placement with nearby neighbors and presented a signed supportive letter from the directly adjacent west neighbor.

Staff recommended conditions limiting the western portion of the deck within the required sideyard to stair access and landings (so it not become expanded usable deck area), prohibiting roofing or enclosure of the deck, and requiring an approved as-built survey at permit closeout. The board added no additional conditions and approved the request; roll call was unanimous.

The applicant said the deck will use composite decking and the board had no concerns about spacing for the composite material. The approval allows the homeowners to proceed with building permits under the stated conditions.