HomeMy WebLinkAboutZMA201600018 Request of Modification, Variance, Waiver 2017-01-18 COUNTY OF ALBEMARLE
ANALYSIS OF SPECIAL EXCEPTION REQUEST
ATTACHMENT E
DATE: January 18, 2017
STAFF: Elaine Echols, Department of Community Development
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST:
Special Exception for waiver of requirements of County Code Section 18-4.2.1.a.(v)to allow a
building site within a stream buffer under chapter 17 of the Code in conjunction with
ZMA201600018 1278 Crozet Ave.
PURPOSE OF REQUEST:
County Code Section 18-4.2.1.a. (v)requires that a building site not be located within a stream buffer that
is required under the Water Protection Ordinance(WPO).This requirement may be waived or modified by
special exception upon the Board's consideration of whether(i)the parcel has an unusual size,
topography, shape, location or other unusual physical condition; or(ii)development in a stream buffer on
the parcel was authorized as provided in section 17-321 of the Code.
In order for ZMA201600018 to be approved, a special exception to allow a building site in the stream
buffer is necessary. The Planning Commission was made aware of the need for the special exception and
did not oppose the applicant's request.
DISCUSSION:
Creation of a building site as requested by the applicant meets both of the above criteria. The property is
long and narrow,as depicted on the applicant's request for the special exception. Two-thirds of the
property contains a stream buffer required by the WPO.
The County Engineer has reviewed this request and authorized disturbance in the outer 50 feet because
the area is actually a swale covered with grass and the applicant has proposed mitigation involving the
planting of three trees(§17-604.A). Use of the existing driveway to the house at 1278 Crozet Avenue is
required for the new building site to avoid disturbance of the inner 50 feet of the stream buffer.The Crozet
Master Plan supports the County Engineer's decision because of expectations for redevelopment.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Board adopt the attached Resolution (Attachment G)to approve this special
exception to allow a building site within a stream buffer required by the WPO.