5.6 PCSR 07-26-1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Gramstad Homes Page 2 July 26, 1994 • BACKGROUND Gramstad Homes is requesting preliminary plat review of a townhome/ residential subdivision consisting of seven (7) duplexes (fourteen units); a conditional use permit for a zero lot line separating the duplexes and a variance to the minimum lot size. The duplexes will be priced in the $90,000 range per unit. The subject site is 2.73 acres in size and is currently vacant. VARIANCE The site is zoned R3 (Townhouse/Multi Family Residential), which requires a minimum lot size of 6,000 square feet. Each of the individual duplex lots is 2,422 square feet in size. The 6,000 feet required by code assumes that there is no common lot area as proposed with this plat. Considering common area, (minus the private street area) the average lot size is 7,670 square feet per unit, which exceeds City standards. However, due the actual lot size of 2,422 square feet as shown on the plat, a variance to the minimum lot size is required. Staff feels the applicant can demonstrate hardship because the plat is being developed into a townhome type development with common land • area. Reducing the individual lot size does not increase the density of the development. The applicant could develop the property without the need for a variance if it were not a townhome type development. The intent of the provisions of this ordinance is maintained since the net average lot size of 7,670 square feet exceeds the City's standards. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT A conditional use permit is required due to the zero lot line proposal. A zero lot line separating the garages will allow each unit to be sold separately while Lot 15 (common area) would be owned and maintained by the Association. All common walls will be constructed to meet the separation requirements as set forth in the Uniform Building Code (UBC). Consideration should also be given to the narrow four (4) foot corridor between the buildings. According to the UBC, no openings (such as doors or windows) can be allowed between the buildings. Also, no storage between the buildings can be allowed. Staff is concerned that this area may be used for storage purposes, which would be very difficult to enforce and may pose a maintenance problem such as a collecting point for blowing leaves and debris. Staff suggests that the applicant consider extending the zero lot line down the entire length of the dwelling. • As a side note to the conditional use permit, staff recommends a landscaped berm be added along Meadowvale Road. This will provide the townhomes gramstad.pc