A solar access exception proposal took center stage at the Boulder City Board of Zoning Adjustments meeting, focusing on a renovation project at 3585 Longwood Avenue. The applicant seeks to modify and expand the upper story of a single-family home, requiring a special exception to the solar access area regulations.

During the presentation, staff highlighted that the properties directly affected by this request include 555 Longwood and 3130 Cottrell, as well as 3140 Cottrell Court. Typically, such solar exceptions are handled through an administrative review process. However, due to a lack of written support from one of the three impacted neighbors, the case was escalated to the Board of Zoning Adjustments for a hearing.

The absence of neighbor support is significant, as all three affected parties must agree for the application to qualify for the administrative track. This procedural shift underscores the importance of community input in zoning decisions, as the board now has the authority to review and decide on the exception.

As the meeting progressed, the board members were reminded of the detailed checklist required for such exceptions, emphasizing the need for thorough evaluation. The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for future solar access requests in Boulder, highlighting the balance between individual property rights and community interests.