Agenda - Planning Commission - 12/01/2016

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Review File: Woodlands 4th Addition Preliminary Plat, Cul-de-sac Length Variance and Lot Depth variance. November 23, 2016 Page S of S either Alpine Drive,or Ramsey Boulevard NW would require extensive impacts to surrounding wetlands and as such Staff is not supportive of an extension. Fire,Engineering,and Public Works Staff have reviewed the proposed cul-de-sac and find it acceptable. Staff recommends approval of the Cul-De-Sac length variance as requested. Lot Depth Variance Review The Applicant is proposing one lot that would not meet the City's requirement for lot depth which requires that each lot have an area sixty (60) feet wide by one hundred (100) feet deep not encumbered by wetland, wetland setback area, floodway, or steep slopes. Lot 2, Block 1 does not meet this requirement. There are significant wetlands in the rear yard of the lot indicated above limiting the amount of useable/buildable space. While the proposed encroachment is just 125 square feet, as proposed, Lot 2 Block 1 does not contain an excessively large side yard area which could provide space for future improvements such as a deck or accessory building. While the lot is shown to be in excess of 100 feet wide at the front,the lot becomes narrower at the rear of the property reducing the width of the rear of the lot to a distance of 83 feet which is considered an average width for a rear yard. The Environmental Policy Board(EPB)reviewed the proposal and recommended that the variance to lot depth not be approved. Due to the lack of a practical difficulty and the absence of an excessively large side yard that would satisfy the spirit and intent of the lot depth ordinance,Staff recommends denial of the Lot Depth variance as requested.