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LA18-000087 11/19/2018 Page 2 of 3 where their strict enforcement would cause practical difficulties because of circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration, and shall recommend approval only when it is demonstrated that such actions will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the Orono Zoning Code. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties. Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minn. Stat. § 216C.06, subd. 2, when in harmony with this chapter. The board or the council may not permit as a variance any use that is not permitted under this chapter for property in the zone where the affected person's land is located. The board or council may permit as a variance the temporary use of a one-family dwelling as a two-family dwelling. According to MN §462.537 Subd. 6(2) variances shall only be permitted when: 1. The variance is in harmony with the general intent and purpose of the Ordinance. The Planning Commission should discussion the intent of the fence setbacks to determine if the proposed fence location is in harmony with the intent of the Ordinance. 2. The variance is consistent with the comprehensive plan. An addition of a fence to a property with an existing home is consistent with the comprehensive plan. 3. The applicant establishes that there are practical difficulties. a. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the official controls; The use of a fence is a reasonable accessory use within the LR-1A District. b. There are circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; The applicant states the section of Ferndale is busy and acts like a county road and so, should follow the city code exception to allow for a 6 foot fence. c. The variance will not alter the essential character of the locality. A fence should not alter the character of the area. Additionally City Code 78-123 provides additional parameters within which a variance may be granted as follows: 4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties. Economic considerations have not been a factor in the variance approval determination. 5. Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minn. Stat. § 216C.06, subd. 2, when in harmony with Orono City Code Chapter 78. This condition is not applicable. 6. The board or the council may not permit as a variance any use that is not permitted under Orono City Code Chapter 78 for property in the zone where the affected person's land is located. This condition is not applicable, as the use for a fence is an allowed accessory use in the LR-1A District. 7. The board or council may permit as a variance the temporary use of a one-family dwelling as a two-family dwelling. This condition is not applicable. 8. The special conditions applying to the structure or land in question are peculiar to such property or immediately adjoining property. The property abuts a roadway that is heavily used and accesses other municipality’s business district. Due to the unique shape of the lot the home is located close to the right of way creating the need for separation for safety and privacy. 9. The conditions do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district in which the land is located. The applicant finds this to be true due to the position of the home to the right of way creating the need separation.