04-24-2003 Regular Meeting and Public Hearing of the La Porte Zoning Board of Adjustment

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• • Staff Report May 22, 2003 Special Exception Request #SE03-002 Reauested bv: Buford Lloyd Crowell, Jr., property owner Reauested for: Lots 57 & 58; Block 24; Bayfront to La Porte Addition Location: 706 S. Blackwell Zoning: Low Density Residential (R-1) Bac round: The age of the single family dwelling in question is unknown; however, based on the 1980 city aerial map the home existed at that time. $ee Exhibit A. The applicant is unable to provide a property survey but based on an "exposed" front property corner pin, the applicant and staff both feel the house is located approximately twenty-three feet (23') back from the front property line. Since the front yard setback does not comply with the existing twenty-five foot (25') front yard setback established by the city's zoning regulations, the house is considered apre-existing, non-conforming structure. Recently a front porch addition was built without the authorization of the city and is located only sixteen feet (16') back from the front property line. The porch addition increases the amount of nonconformity for the property. The applicant has. stated that a smaller porch did existed at one time; however, the aerial map does not reflect this and he has been unable to locate an old survey or photographs to substantiate this for stafl=. The applicant wishes to keep the porch in place by obtaining a city building permit; however, staff is unable to issue a permit based on the conflict with the zoning regulations. To address this issue, the applicant has chosen to submit a Special Exception request asking for a deviation from the front yard requirement. Analysis: The Code of Ordinances defines a special exception as a specified enumerated deviation from zoning regulations. The Board is empowered to grant a special exception when it finds the following: ~ . • Granting the exception will not adversely affect the value, or use of neighboring property. • Granting the exception will not be contrary to the best public interest.