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6/23/23, 11:06 AM Permit Details I Citizenserve <br />PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES DOCUMENTATION FORM <br />LA23-000032 <br />1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not <br />permitted by the Zoning Chapter. <br />Response: The proposed home is of similar style and size of newer homes within the neighboring <br />community thus maintaining the essential character of the locality. It is consistent with the <br />comprehensive plan and intent of the zoning ordinance. <br />The requested rear setback variance is in line with adjacent properties and will be an improvement <br />from the current home/garage location allowing neighbors to the rear more open space and better air <br />flow. <br />The front loading garage will be less disruptive and provide more privacy to the neighboring house to <br />the north. <br />2. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created <br />by the landowner. <br />Response: The substandard depth of the lot isn't conducive to building a home within the zoning <br />requirements (25 feet). <br />The upward slope of Tonka Ave results in a problem peculiar to our lot. The only feasible location for a <br />driveway is the far north end of the lot due to the uphill slope of the road and continued upward slope <br />to the garage location. Location of a city installed storm drain along Tonka Ave further limits driveway <br />placement. A driveway down hill from the storm drain would result in a very steep driveway and <br />sloped apron. Moving the house back 5 feet would reduce the slope and allow an apron to be built <br />with less slope, fill, or terracing. <br />3. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. <br />Response: The proposed home is of similar scale and consistent in design and character with homes <br />in the surrounding area. <br />The single story design, despite the proposed 5 foot rear setback variance, would provide neighbors <br />to the rear with better visibility, views, and air flow due to the setback being significantly less than the <br />existing structures and the lower roof line of a single story home vs a two story. Neighbor's privacy is <br />also enhanced with no second story windows overlooking their homes. <br />Structures on either side are of similar setbacks. <br />4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable use <br />for the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter. <br />Response: N/A <br />5. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight <br />for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth -sheltered construction as <br />defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 1163.06, Subd. 2, when in harmony with this <br />Chapter. <br />Response: Changing the house plan to a narrower footprint would result in sliding the main body of <br />the house forward thus reducing the southern exposure of the garage and reducing or eliminating <br />future solar options. <br />The upward slope of Tonka Ave results in a problem peculiar to our lot. The only logical spot for a <br />https://www5.citizenserve.com/Admin/PerrnitController?Action=DisplayPermitDetaiI&SelectedTab=Permits&Permit_ID=12027241 &WorkOrder_ID=872... 1/3 <br />