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CASE # REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE TO CONSTRUCT AN ACCESSORY STRUCTURE NEARER THE FRONT PROPERTY LINE THAN THE PRINCIPAL STRUCTURE; CASE OF CHARLES AND KATHLEEN DAVIS By: Zoning Administrator Sylvia Frolik Background: Section 9.11.02 of the Ramsey City Code states that no accessory structure shall be constructed nearer the front property line than the principal structure. Mr. Davis has applied for a variance to construct an accessory structure nearer the front property line than the principal structure on the property at 14490 Bowers Drive NW. The following items are enclosed for your information: a) Site location map b) Site plan c) Site pictures d) Proposed Findings of Fact e) Proposed Variance Observations: The property is located on Bowers Drive, along the Mississippi River. Bowers Drive is considered the front Yard and the Mississippi River is considered the back yard. In 1985, the City adopted regulations for properties within the Critical River Corridor. One of the regulations is that there shall be a 200 foot structure setback from the ordinary high mark. Mr. Davis' house is approximately 103 feet from the ordinary high water mark and is considered lawful non- conforming. Placement of the new garage in the back yard between the house and river would intensify the non-conformity. The better alternative is to construct the garage in the front yard. The home on the property is located approximately 236 feet from the front property line and 103 feet from the ordinary high water mark of the Mississippi River. Mr. Davis is proposing to construct the new garage approximately 145 feet from the front property line and 218 feet from the ordinary high water mark. Similar variances have been granted in the past, some of which were for properties along Bowers Drive. Recommendation: City Staff recommends approval of the variance application.