Commission approves variance for corner‑lot single‑family house with reduced setbacks and driveway depth

Summary

A variance allowing a 5‑foot side‑street setback, a 5‑foot driveway depth and 43.3% lot coverage for a 1,394‑sq‑ft single‑family residence on a 4,285‑sq‑ft corner lot was approved 6–2 after commissioners weighed traffic and design concerns and staff found the lot’s size and shape limit buildable options.

The Planning Commission approved Variance 25‑01 to permit three deviations from development standards for a single‑family corner lot: a side‑street setback reduction (15′ required down to 5′), a driveway‑depth reduction (24′ required down to 5′), and increased lot coverage (35% up to 43.3%).

Gabriela Sosa, presenting the item, said the lot measures approximately 4,285 square feet with a narrow width that prevents compliance with standard dimensions for the residential‑suburban zone; staff recommended approval, concluding that allowing the deviations would rehabilitate a vacant, blighted lot and be compatible with surrounding bungalows. Commissioners asked questions about driveway safety, automatic gate operation, and whether adding a second story had been considered; the applicant said a two‑story option had not been pursued, likely for cost and neighborhood‑compatibility reasons.

After discussion about car overhang onto a busy West 6th Street and the proposed gate operation, the commission moved and seconded the staff recommendation and approved the variance on a 6–2 vote. Staff will incorporate conditions to mitigate driveway/traffic concerns in final permit documents.