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Request by Thomas Vavra IV, Vavra Design, for a lot coverage variance for a detached accessory structure (garage) at 1851 Church Street
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Submitted by:
Art Piñon
Department:
Development
A. Issue
The applicant is requesting two (2) variances to exceed the maximum permitted lot coverage requirements associated with the construction of a proposed 750-square-foot accessory structure (detached garage) at 1851 Church Street, located within the Mixed Residential (MR) zoning district. The subject property is currently developed with a triplex and an existing two-car detached garage. The applicant proposes to replace the existing garage with a new three-car detached garage in order to provide one enclosed parking space for each residential unit.
The requested variances are summarized as follows:
Variance 1 - Accessory Structure Lot Coverage
• Maximum Permitted: 12%
• Proposed: 12.25%
Variance 2 - Total Lot Coverage (Primary and Accessory Structures Combined)
• Maximum Permitted: 42%
• Proposed: 44.5%
Attached to this report are the applicant’s written responses addressing the four variance findings required pursuant to WMC 24.16.060.H, as well as the associated project plans.
B. Recommendation
The standard four criteria should be applied to make the determination for the requested variances:
1. Exceptional circumstances do exist pertaining to this lot.
2. That a variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of the property rights possessed by other properties in the district and vicinity.
3. That the variance will not create special detriment to adjacent property and will not materially impair or be contrary to the purpose and spirit of this or to the public interests.
4. That the difficulty or hardship was not created by the property owner.