Submitted by: Jeff Ulysse
Submitting Department: Community, Business & Economic Development
Agenda Section: Action
Item Title:
title
Zoning Variance Request V-65-24 - 5803 33rd Ave, Hyattsville
end
Suggested Action:
recommendation
I move the City Council authorize the Mayor to send a letter to the Board of Zoning Appeals requesting the denial of application #V-65-24, for subject property at 5803 33rd Ave, Hyattsville specifically for the waiver of the parking area location requirement. The purpose of the zoning variance request is to validate existing conditions for net lot area, lot width at the building line, front yard depth and waiver of the parking area location requirement to obtain a building permit for a proposed 25’x20’ driveway.
end
Summary Background:
The applicant, Kesete G. Kidane, has applied to the Prince George’s County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) for a zoning variance to validate existing conditions (net lot area, lot width at the building line, front yard depth) and waiver of the parking area location requirement to obtain a building permit for a proposed 25’x20’ driveway.
The existing dwelling was built prior to modern zoning standards and is located as close as 9 feet to the existing lot side yard lot line and as close as 22 feet to the existing front yard lot line.
The petitioner is requesting a variance to allow them to construct a new driveway partially in front of the existing dwelling. Pursuant to § 27-11002 (a) of the county code, the dwelling was not constructed with the benefit of a garage and/or carport and therefore is required to construct a driveway “between the front street line and the sides of the dwelling”. The proposed location of the driveway does not conform with this standard and as a consequence would require a variance.
On October 28th staff performed a site inspection and discovered an existing street tree situated between 33rd ave and subject dwelling. The current location of street tree would effectively obstruct the ability for the applicant to place an apron and driveway at the subject site. Street trees are an invaluable resource for our neighborhood’s; contributing to the environmental health of our communities, providing shade to pedestrians and supporting the overall beautification of our streetscape. Removing or altering the tree could harm the natural character of the neighborhood and reduce aforementioned benefits.
Staff recommends exploring alternative solutions that preserve the tree and maintain the community’s aesthetic and environmental quality.
Next Steps:
No Additional action is required.
Fiscal Impact:
N/A
City Administrator Comments:
Recommends support.
Community Engagement:
The BZA hearing was held on October 23, 2024, and the Board is awaiting a recommendation from the City Council, prior to issuing a decision.
Strategic Goals:
Goal 3 - Promote a Safe and Vibrant Community
Legal Review Required?
N/A