Zoning board approves setback variance for detached garage at 2136 Janet Street

The Zoning Board of Adjustment approved a variance (26VA016) that reduces the minimum side-yard setback from the required 8 feet to as little as 3 feet for a proposed 16-by-24-foot detached garage at 2136 Janet Street. City staff said the lot's shape and an existing drive-through carport limit where a garage can be placed, and staff recommended approval with conditions.

City planner staff explained that the garage’s north rear corner would sit 3 feet from the property line and the front corner about 6 feet, and that an existing shed that encroaches on city-owned land must be moved to meet the five-foot rear-yard setback. The planner also said the fire department required construction adjustments for the reduced setback: “The wall on the north side of the garage that is closest to the property line will need to be constructed with 1 hour fire rated materials,” and added that interior walls and ceiling must be sheetrocked, the north soffit closed and no windows allowed on the north side.

Commissioner Eric Hikes moved approval with staff stipulations, and the board approved the motion by voice vote after questions about drainage and neighborhood context. The applicant agreed to the fire-safety requirements; the approval included the staff conditions listed in the staff report.