The Zoning Board of Adjustments on Oct. 20 unanimously approved a variance allowing a rear-yard carport larger than the 500-square-foot maximum at 813 Canadian Circle.

Staff summary: Salvador Gore of the planning division told the board the carport measures about 630 square feet (staff packet listed 630) and that rear-yard carports are typically administratively approved through permits. The carport had already been constructed when the item came before the board; the applicant's builder was present to answer questions. Staff said 39 notices were mailed, one was returned in favor and none were returned opposed; no homeowners association was listed. Staff did not object to the requested variance.

Applicant remarks: Property owner Jose Alonso told the board he had a sprinter van and a 2,500 diesel truck and said previous thefts and damage motivated him to build covered parking. He said the larger size accommodates both vehicles and tools used in his trade. "I had a vehicle stolen last year with my personal tools and belongings," Alonso said in explaining the request.

Board action and conditions: Board member David Baker moved to approve the staff-presented recommendation; the motion passed 9–0. Commissioners discussed permit procedures, engineering and building-code review; staff clarified that granting the variance approves only the size/placement exception and that building permits and any required engineered drawings must be reviewed and approved separately by building inspections before the city will consider the structure fully permitted.

Why it matters: The board granted a retroactive variance to bring an already-constructed accessory structure into compliance with zoning rules, while clarifying that engineering and permit compliance remain separate requirements enforced through the building-permit review process.

Next steps: The applicant must submit building-permit plans and any required engineering calculations; staff will not issue permits until the structure meets applicable sections of the International Building Code and local ordinances.