Agenda and PacketAGENDA
CHANHASSEN PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2019, 7:00 PM
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 7700 MARKET BOULEVARD
A.CALL TO ORDER
B.PUBLIC HEARINGS
1.Consider a Request for a Rear Yard Setback Variance to Construct a Covered Porch
and Walkway at 832 Woodhill Drive
C.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.Approval of Planning Commission Minutes dated October 1, 2019
D.ADJOURNMENT
E.OPEN DISCUSSION
NOTE: Planning Commission meetings are scheduled to end by 10:30 p.m. as outlined in the official bylaws.
We will make every attempt to complete the hearing for each item on the agenda. If, however, this does not
appear to be possible, the Chairperson will notify those present and offer rescheduling options. Items thus pulled
from consideration will be listed first on the agenda at the next Commission meeting.
If a constituent or resident sends an email to staff or the Planning Commission, it must be made part of the
public record based on State Statute. If a constituent or resident sends an email to the Mayor and City Council, it
is up to each individual City Council member and Mayor if they want it to be made part of the public record or
not. There is no State Statute that forces the Mayor or City Council to share that information with the public or
be made part of the public record. Under State Statute, staff cannot remove comments or letters provided as part
of the public input process.
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF
REPORT
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Subject Consider a Request for a Rear Yard Setback Variance to Construct a Covered Porch and
Walkway at 832 Woodhill Drive
Section PUBLIC HEARINGS Item No: B.1.
Prepared By MacKenzie YoungWalters, Associate
Planner
File No: Planning Case No. 201916
PROPOSED MOTION:
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments denies a 6foot rear yard setback variance for the
construction of a screened porch and walkway, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decision.”
SUMMARY OF REQUEST
The applicant is proposing to add on a 12foot by 12foot screen porch with a 12foot by 6.5foot screened walkway,
and an approximately 130 squarefoot open deck and walkway. The home is built at the 30foot rear setback and the
proposed locations of the screened walkway and porch would require a 6foot rear setback variance.
The applicant has proposed a project that encroaches six feet into the required rear yard setback. Staff believes that
there are alternate locations on the property that can accommodate a screened porch without requiring a variance from
the City Code, and that the requested variance is for the applicant’s preferred placement of the screened porch.
Furthermore, the City Code would permit the construction of an open deck, patio, and other similar improvements
without the need for a variance. Due to these alternatives, staff does not believe the proposal meets the practical
difficulties threshold required to grant a variance.
A full breakdown and analysis of the variance request can be found in the attached staff report.
APPLICANT
Noreen Hoft, 832 Woodhill Drive, Chanhassen, MN 55317
SITE INFORMATION
PRESENT ZONING: Single Family Residential
LAND USE:Residential Low Density
ACREAGE: .55 acres
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFFREPORTTuesday, October 15, 2019SubjectConsider a Request for a Rear Yard Setback Variance to Construct a Covered Porch andWalkway at 832 Woodhill DriveSectionPUBLIC HEARINGS Item No: B.1.Prepared By MacKenzie YoungWalters, AssociatePlanner File No: Planning Case No. 201916PROPOSED MOTION:“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments denies a 6foot rear yard setback variance for theconstruction of a screened porch and walkway, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decision.”SUMMARY OF REQUESTThe applicant is proposing to add on a 12foot by 12foot screen porch with a 12foot by 6.5foot screened walkway,and an approximately 130 squarefoot open deck and walkway. The home is built at the 30foot rear setback and theproposed locations of the screened walkway and porch would require a 6foot rear setback variance.The applicant has proposed a project that encroaches six feet into the required rear yard setback. Staff believes thatthere are alternate locations on the property that can accommodate a screened porch without requiring a variance fromthe City Code, and that the requested variance is for the applicant’s preferred placement of the screened porch.Furthermore, the City Code would permit the construction of an open deck, patio, and other similar improvementswithout the need for a variance. Due to these alternatives, staff does not believe the proposal meets the practicaldifficulties threshold required to grant a variance. A full breakdown and analysis of the variance request can be found in the attached staff report.APPLICANTNoreen Hoft, 832 Woodhill Drive, Chanhassen, MN 55317SITE INFORMATIONPRESENT ZONING: Single Family ResidentialLAND USE:Residential Low Density
ACREAGE: .55 acres
DENSITY: NA
APPLICATION REGULATIONS
Chapter 1, General Provisions
Section 12, Rules of Construction and Definitions
Chapter 20, Article II, Division 3, Variances
Chapter 20, Article XII, “RSF” SingleFamily Residential District
Section 20615, Lot Requirements and Setbacks.
Chapter 20, Article XIII, Division 1, Generally
Section 20908, Yard Regulations
BACKGROUND
In March of 1989, the city approved a permit for the construction of a singlefamily home and attached garage.
Numerous subsequent permits have been pulled for repairs, maintenance, and interior remodels; however, no permit
has altered the footprint of either the house or garage.
In October of 2004, the city approved a permit for the installation of a 120square foot shed in the northwest corner of
the property.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission deny the 6foot rear setback variance for the construction of a screen
porch, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decision. Should the Planning Commission approve the variance
request, it is recommended that the Planning Commission adopt the following motion:
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments approves a 6foot rear yard setback variance for the
construction of a screen porch and walkway, subject to the Conditions of Approval and adopts the attached Findings
of Facts and Decision.
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. Provide an updated survey with permit submittals that illustrates all existing utilities on site and is in accordance
with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 719.
3. A 10foot wide utility easement shall be recorded in perpetuity with the property for the maintenance and repair
of the storm sewer pipe and manhole located on the subject property. This easement shall extend to the southern
property line in order to access the storm sewer pipe.
ATTACHMENTS:
Staff Report
Findings of Fact (Denial)
Findings of Fact (Approval)
Variance Document
Development Review Application
Narrative
Plan Sheets
Engineering Memo
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
PC DATE: October 15, 2019
CC DATE: November 12, 2019
REVIEW DEADLINE: Nov. 12, 2019
CASE #: 2019-16
BY: MYW
SUMMARY OF REQUEST
The applicant is proposing to add on a 12-
foot-by-12-foot screen porch with a 12-
foot-by-6.5-foot screened walkway, and
an approximately 130 square foot open
deck and walkway. The home is built at
the 30-foot rear setback and the proposed
locations of the screened walkway and
porch would require a 6-foot rear setback
variance.
LOCATION: 832 Woodhill Drive
(PID 251601930)
OWNER: Noreen Hoft
832 Woodhill Drive
Chanhassen, MN
55317
PRESENT ZONING: RSF
2030 LAND USE PLAN: Residential Low Density
ACREAGE: .55 acres DENSITY: NA
LEVEL OF CITY DISCRETION IN DECISION-MAKING:
The city’s discretion in approving or denying a variance is limited to whether or not the proposed
project meets the standards in the Zoning Ordinance for a variance. The city has a relatively high
level of discretion with a variance because the applicant is seeking a deviation from established
standards. This is a quasi-judicial decision.
PROPOSED MOTION:
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments denies a 6-foot rear setback variance for the
construction of screened porch, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decisions.”
(Note: A motion for approval, conditions for approval and appropriate Findings of Fact are also
included at the end of the report.)
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 2 of 7
Notice of this public hearing has been mailed to all property owners within 500 feet.
PROPOSAL/SUMMARY
The home was built in 1989
with a 30-foot front yard
setback and a 30-foot rear
yard setback on a 220-foot
wide by 100-foot deep lot.
The property currently has
approximately 2,900 square
feet of lot cover resulting in
13.2 percent lot coverage.
The footprint of the home has
not changed since its initial
construction; however, an
interior remodel was conducted in 2014.
The applicant bought the home in 1990, and they are proposing to construct an open
deck/walkway, and screened porch/walkway off the rear of the home. While the City Code
allows open decks to encroach up to 5 feet into required setbacks, enclosed structures are
required to meet the district’s yard setback. The applicant’s proposal would encroach 6 feet into
the required rear yard setback.
The applicant has stated that a screened deck and walkway are necessary due to her husband’s
disability, which limits his mobility and will soon require the use of a wheelchair. She notes that
the proposed location will provide the easiest access to the deck and will prevent insects from
getting into the home during ingress and egress. She has noted that an alternative location on the
east side of the house would require a lengthier transit and would block the view from the living
room windows. The applicant has also noted that the proposed screen porch location is over a
level portion of the yard and that other locations would involve more extensive grading. The
applicant has observed that several of the surrounding homes have decks and patios, and feels
that the yard’s trees will screen the porch from the neighboring properties.
APPLICABLE REGULATIONS
Chapter 1, General Provisions
Section 1-2, Rules of Construction and Definitions
Chapter 20, Article II, Division 3, Variances
Chapter 20, Article XII, “RSF” Single-Family Residential District
Section 20-615, Lot Requirements and Setbacks.
Chapter 20, Article XIII, Division 1, Generally
Section 20-908, Yard Regulations
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 3 of 7
BACKGROUND
In March of 1989, the city approved a permit for the construction of a single-family home and
attached garage. Numerous subsequent permits have been pulled for repairs, maintenance, and
interior remodels; however, no permit has altered the footprint of either the house or garage.
In October of 2004, the city approved a permit for the installation of a 120 square foot shed in
the northwest corner of the property.
SITE CONDITIONS
The property is zoned Single-Family Residential (RSF) District. This zoning classification
requires lots to be a minimum of 15,000 square feet with a minim lot width of 90 feet and a
minimum lot depth of 125 feet, have front and rear yard setbacks of 30 feet, side yard setbacks of
10 feet, and limits parcels to a maximum of 25 percent lot cover. Residential structures are
limited to 35 feet in height.
The lot is 22,000 square feet with a lot width of 220 feet and lot depth of 100 feet, and has an
estimated 2,900 square feet (13.2 percent) lot cover. The existing house and shed appear to meet
the district’s required setbacks.
NEIGHBORHOOD
Carver Beach
The plat for this area was recorded in July
of 1927 and divided the land up into a
large number of small 20-foot wide by
100-foot deep lots. Over the following
decades, many of these lots were
combined to create larger lots; however,
many of the resulting lots are still
substandard or have atypical shapes. The
plat and many of its lot combinations
predate the City of Chanhassen and since
their creation, a zoning code was passed,
the zoning code was amended numerous
times, and buildings were built,
demolished, and rebuilt to meet the
standards and needs of the existing ordinances. The result of this is that many properties in the
area do not meet one or more of the requirements of the city’s zoning code, and a significant
number of properties are either non-conforming uses or are operating under a variance.
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 4 of 7
Variances within 500 feet:
1981-02 825 Lone Eagle Road: Approved - 17’ front, 7’ side (garage)
1988-06 6901 Yuma Drive: Approved - 7,000 sq. ft. lot size (house)
1989-08 825 Ponderosa Drive: Denied - 3,000 sq. ft. lot size (subdivision)
1996-10 855 Lone Eagle Road: Approved - 13’ front (garage)
1999-10 6870 Nez Perce Drive: Approved - 11’ rear (addition)
2004-11 795 Ponderosa Drive: Approved - 7,068 sq. ft. lot size (house)
ANALYSIS
Rear Yard Setback
The property’s existing home is
currently located 30 feet from the rear
lot line. The applicant is proposing
constructing a 12-foot-by-12-foot
screened patio and 12-foot-by-6.5-foot
screened walkway off the rear of the
house. Due to the angle of the house
only a small, approximately 2.5 foot,
section of the screened way and
approximately half of the 12-foot-by-
12-foot patio would be located within
the property’s 30-foot rear setback.
The city establishes rear setbacks in order to provide for rear yard greenspace, afford both the
property owners and rear neighbors a sense of privacy, and to minimize the visual impact of the
principal structure on surrounding properties. Section 20-908 of the City Code allows unenclosed
decks and patios to project up to 5 feet into required yards; however, screened porches are not
entitled to this exemption. Enclosed and unenclosed decks are treated differently due to the differing
visual impact of open and closed structures. While staff agrees that decks and screened porches are
reasonable accessory uses for single-family homes and that the proposed screen porch is not
abnormally large, the reasonable use standard is different from preferred use and location. Since an
11-foot-by-12-foot open deck would be permitted in the same location, it is difficult to take the
position that the City Code does not permit reasonable use of the property.
Variances should only be granted in situations where the nature of the parcel prevents reasonable
use of the parcel. The applicant’s 100-foot deep lot is shallower than the 125 feet required in the
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 5 of 7
RSF district; however, at 220 feet wide, it is significantly wider than the 90-foot minimum width
required in the RSF district. When the required 30-foot front and rear setbacks and 10-foot side
setbacks are removed, the property has a 40-foot deep by 200-foot wide building pad. Staff believes
this area provides several options to locate a screened porch without requiring a variance. The
graphic below shows three potential locations that staff believes would accommodate a screened
porch without a variance.
Alternative Screened Porch Locations
Alternative A would utilize the door located in the house near the intersection of the home and
garage to provide access to a 6-foot wide covered walkway and 12-foot-by-12-foot screened porch
on the flatter portion of the lot behind the garage. Alterative B would utilize the sliding door and an
open walkway to access a 12-foot-by-12-foot screened porch built off of the corner of the existing
home, and Alternative C would utilize the same walkway to access a 12-foot-by-12-foot screened
porch built off of the east side of the house. If a covered walkway is deemed essential, as part of
options B or C, it could be accommodated with a much less intensive 2-foot rear yard variance for a
small section of the walkway that would encroach into the required setback. As noted earlier, an
open deck could be constructed along the back or sides of the house encroaching up to five feet into
the required rear setback without requiring a variance.
In order to grant a variance, the city must find that there are practical difficulties in complying with
the zoning ordinance. The term “practical difficulties” is clarified to mean that the property owner
proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by Chapter 20 of the City Code.
In this case, staff believes that availability of alternative configurations for a screened porch or open
deck designs that meet the requirements of Chapter 20 means that staff must recommend denial of
the requested variance.
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 6 of 7
Impact on Neighborhood
Carver Beach is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. Many of its properties are non-
conforming uses, and six variances have been given to the 66 properties within 500 feet of 832
Woodhill Drive. The one variance for a rear yard setback is currently a technical variance, with the
property owner owning a second lot behind their existing home; however, staff does not believe that
the owner owned the second lot at the time the variance was granted. Structures in the immediate
vicinity appear to meet the district’s required rear yard setback, with non-conforming front and side
yard setbacks being much more common. Due to the fact that most lots in this subdivision are only
100 feet deep, encroaching on the rear setback has a more pronounced impact as neighboring
properties have less rear yard to offset the impact. That being said, there is a lot of vegetation
between 832 Woodhill Drive and its neighbors which will provide a significant amount of
screening, especially during leaf-on conditions. Overall, staff does not believe that the proposed
variance would fundamentally alter or detract from the character of the neighborhood.
Planning Commission
832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case No. 19-16
October 15, 2019
Page 7 of 7
SUMMARY
The applicant has proposed a project that encroaches six feet into the required rear yard setback.
Staff believes that there are alternate locations on the property that can accommodate a screened
porch without requiring a variance from the City Code, and that the requested variance is for the
applicant’s preferred placement of the screened porch. Furthermore, the City Code would permit
the construction of an open deck, patio, and other similar improvements without the need for a
variance. Due to these alternatives, staff does not believe the proposal meets the practical
difficulties threshold required to grant a variance.
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission deny the 6-foot rear setback variance for the
construction of a screened porch, and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decisions.
Should the Planning Commission approve the variance request, it is recommended that the
Planning Commission adopt the following motion:
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments approves a 6-foot rear yard setback
variance for the construction of a screen porch and walkway, subject to the Conditions of
Approval and adopts the attached Findings of Facts and Decision.
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. Provide an updated survey with permit submittals that illustrates all existing utilities on
site and is in accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 7-19.
3. A 10-foot wide utility easement shall be recorded in perpetuity with the property for the
maintenance and repair of the storm sewer pipe and manhole located on the subject
property. This easement shall extend to the southern property line in order to access the
storm sewer pipe.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Findings of Fact and Decision (Denial)
2. Findings of Fact and Decision (Approval)
3. Variance Document
4. Development Review Application and Narrative
5. Plan Sheets
6. Engineering Memo
G:\PLAN\2019 Planning Cases\19-16 832 Woodhill Drive VAR\Staff Report-832 Woodhill Drive_PC.doc
1
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
CARVER AND HENNEPIN COUNTIES, MINNESOTA
FINDINGS OF FACT
AND DECISION
(DENIAL)
IN RE:
Application of Noreen Hoft for a 6-foot rear setback variance on a property zoned Single-Family
Residential District (RSF) - Planning Case 2019-16.
On October 15, 2019, the Chanhassen Planning Commission, acting as the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments, met at its regularly scheduled meeting to consider the application. The Planning
Commission conducted a public hearing on the proposed variance preceded by published and
mailed notice. The Board of Appeals and Adjustments makes the following:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The property is currently zoned Single-Family Residential District (RSF).
2. The property is guided in the Chanhassen Comprehensive Plan for Residential Low Density.
3. The legal description of the property is:
Lots 2543 through 2553, inclusive, Carver Beach
4. Variance Findings – Section 20-58 of the City Code provides the following criteria for the
granting of a variance:
a. Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes
and intent of this Chapter and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive
plan.
Finding: The zoning code establishes minimum rear yard setbacks to provide
greenspace and separation between neighboring primary structures. While the zoning
code does allow open decks, patios, and sheds to be located within required rear yards,
principal structures and enclosed porches are limited to a property’s buildable area. The
intent of this limit is to minimize the visual impact of tall-enclosed structures and to
create a sense of space and openness between neighboring homes. In this case, both the
applicant’s property and rear neighbor have lots not meeting the RSF district’s minimum
lot depth, a situation that exacerbates the impact of encroachments into the required rear
yard. Permitting an enclosed porch to encroach into the 30-foot rear yard setback is not
consistent with the intent of the chapter.
b. When there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. "Practical
difficulties," as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that the
2
property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by this
Chapter. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct
sunlight for solar energy systems.
Finding: There are locations on the property that could accommodate a screened porch
without requiring a variance, and the zoning code would allow for the construction of an
open deck or patio in the proposed location. The city does not find that being unable to
construct a preferred improvement in a preferred location constitutes a practical
difficulty.
c. That the purpose of the variation is not based upon economic considerations alone.
Finding: The variance request is not solely based upon economic considerations.
d. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by
the landowner.
Finding: While the lot has a substandard depth of 100 feet, it does provide a 40-foot deep
building pad which is sufficient to accommodate a single-family home and typical
accessory uses. The plight of the landowner is created by the landowner’s desired
location for and design of the accessory structure. A different location or use of an open
porch would remove the need for the variance.
e. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.
Finding: The property is located in one of the city’s oldest subdivisions. Multiple
properties within 500 feet of the parcel either have received variances or are non-
conforming uses. The addition of a screened porch will not alter the essential character of
the locality.
f. Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as defined in Minnesota
Statutes Section 216C.06, subdivision 14, when in harmony with this Chapter.
Finding: This does not apply to this request.
5. The planning report #2019-16, dated October 15, 2019, prepared by MacKenzie Young-
Walters, is incorporated herein.
3
DECISION
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments denies the 6-foot rear yard setback
variance.”
ADOPTED by the Chanhassen Planning Commission this 15th day of October, 2019.
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
BY:
Steven Weick, Chairman
g:\plan\2019 planning cases\19-16 832 woodhill drive var\findings of fact and decision 832 woodhill drive (denied).doc
1
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
CARVER AND HENNEPIN COUNTIES, MINNESOTA
FINDINGS OF FACT
AND DECISION
(APPROVAL)
IN RE:
Application of Noreen Hoft for a 6-foot rear setback variance on a property zoned Single-Family
Residential District (RSF) - Planning Case 2019-16.
On October 15, 2019, the Chanhassen Planning Commission, acting as the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments, met at its regularly scheduled meeting to consider the application. The Planning
Commission conducted a public hearing on the proposed variance preceded by published and
mailed notice. The Board of Appeals and Adjustments makes the following:
FINDINGS OF FACT
1. The property is currently zoned Single-Family Residential District (RSF).
2. The property is guided in the Chanhassen Comprehensive Plan for Residential Low Density.
3. The legal description of the property is:
Lots 2543 through 2553, inclusive, Carver Beach
4. Variance Findings – Section 20-58 of the City Code provides the following criteria for the
granting of a variance:
a. Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes
and intent of this Chapter and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive
plan.
Finding: The zoning code establishes minimum rear yard setbacks to provide
greenspace and separation between neighboring primary structures. The zoning code also
allows for typical accessory uses such as decks and porches and allows open decks and
patios to encroach up to 5 feet into required rear yard setbacks. The proposed screened
porch would only extend 6 feet into the required rear yard, with the majority of the
structure being located in an area permitted by the zoning code. The presence of
vegetation between the applicant’s property and the neighboring structures will minimize
its potential impact on the neighboring properties and will help maintain a sense of
separation. Permitting the construction of a screened porch partially within the rear yard
setback would be consistent with the intent of the chapter.
b. When there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. "Practical
difficulties," as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that the
2
property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by this
Chapter. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct
sunlight for solar energy systems.
Finding: The proposed size and location of the screened porch are both reasonable, and
screened porches are typical uses within the RSF district. The proposed encroachment
into the required rear yard setback is similar to what an open deck would be entitled to;
however, the zoning code does not extend this encroachment to enclosed decks.
c. That the purpose of the variation is not based upon economic considerations alone.
Finding: The variance request is not solely based upon economic considerations.
d. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by
the landowner.
Finding: The lot has a substandard depth of only 100 feet that prevents the applicant
from having enough buildable area to locate the screened porch outside of the rear
setback.
e. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.
Finding: The property is located in one of the city’s oldest subdivisions. Multiple
properties within 500 feet of the parcel either have received variances or are non-
conforming uses. The addition of a screened porch will not alter the essential character of
the locality.
f. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minnesota
Statutes Section 216C.06, subdivision 14, when in harmony with this Chapter.
Finding: This does not apply to this request.
5. The planning report #2019-16, dated October 15, 2019, prepared by MacKenzie Young-
Walters, is incorporated herein.
DECISION
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments approves a 6-foot rear yard setback
variance for the construction of a screened porch, subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. Provide an updated survey with permit submittals that illustrates all existing utilities on
site and is in accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 7-19.
3. A 10-foot wide utility easement shall be recorded in perpetuity with the property for the
maintenance and repair of the storm sewer pipe and manhole located on the subject
3
property. This easement shall extend to the southern property line in order to access the
storm sewer pipe.”
ADOPTED by the Chanhassen Planning Commission this 15th day of October, 2019.
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
BY:
Steven Weick, Chairman
g:\plan\2019 planning cases\19-16 832 woodhill drive var\findings of fact and decision 832 woodhill drive (approval).doc
1
CITY OF CHANHASSEN
CARVER COUNTY, MINNESOTA
VARIANCE 2019-16
1. Permit. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the City of Chanhassen hereby
grants the following variance:
The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments approves a 6-foot rear setback
variance.
2. Property. The variance is for a property situated in the City of Chanhassen, Carver County,
Minnesota, and legally described as Lots 2543 through 2553, inclusive, Carver Beach.
3. Conditions. The variance approval is subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. Provide an updated survey with permit submittals that illustrates all existing utilities on
site and is in accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 7-19.
3. A 10-foot wide utility easement shall be recorded in perpetuity with the property for the
maintenance and repair of the storm sewer pipe and manhole located on the subject
property. This easement shall extend to the southern property line in order to access the
storm sewer pipe.
4. Lapse. If within one (1) year of the issuance of this variance the allowed construction has not
been substantially completed, this variance shall lapse.
2
Dated: October 15, 2019 CITY OF CHANHASSEN
BY:
(SEAL) Elise Ryan, Mayor
AND:
Todd Gerhardt, City Manager
STATE OF MINNESOTA )
(ss
COUNTY OF CARVER )
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me this day of ,
2019 by Elise Ryan, Mayor and Todd Gerhardt, City Manager, of the City of Chanhassen, a
Minnesota municipal corporation, on behalf of the corporation and pursuant to authority granted by
its City Council.
NOTARY PUBLIC
DRAFTED BY:
City of Chanhassen
7700 Market Boulevard
P.O. Box 147
Chanhassen, MN 55317
(952) 227-1100
g:\plan\2019 planning cases\19-16 832 woodhill drive var\variance document 19-16.doc
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Planning Division -7700 Market Boulevard CITY On CHkNHASSNMailingAddress-P.O. Box 147, Chanhassen, MN 55317it rL
Phone: (952) 227-1300/Fax: (952) 227-1110
APPLICAT IONSFOR DEVELOPMENT REVIEW
it - Ia 1t _ ,a_
Submittal Date: Q 13 I11 PC Date: i i cj CC Date: let=lat- I g 60-Day Review Date: i<f
Section 1: Application Type(check all that apply)
Refer to the appropriate Application Checklist for required submittal information that must accompany this application)
Comprehensive Plan Amendment 600 Subdivision (SUB)
Minor MUSA line for failing on-site sewers $100 Create 3 lots or less 300
Create over 3 lots 600 +$15 per lot
Conditional Use Permit(CUP) lots)
Single-Family Residence 325 Metes & Bounds (2 lots) 300
All Others 425 Consolidate Lots 150
El Use Permit (IUP)
Lot Line Adjustment 150
Final Plat 700
In conjunction with Single-Family Residence..$325
Includes $450 escrow for attorney costs)*CI All All Others Additional escrow may be required for other applications
through the development contract.
Rezoning (REZ)
Planned Unit Development (PUD) 750 Vacation of Easements/Right-of-way (VAC) $300
Minor Amendment to existing PUD 100 Additional recording fees may apply)
All Others 500
Variance (VAR)200
Sign Plan Review 150
Wetland Alteration Permit (WAP)
Site Plan Review(SPR) Single-Family Residence 150
Administrative 100 All Others 275
Commercial/Industrial Districts* 500
Plus $10 per 1,000 square feet of building area: ID Zoning Appeal 100
thousand square feet)
Include number of existing employees:
CI Zoning Ordinance Amendment (ZOA) 500
Include number of new employees:
Residential Districts 500 NOTE: When multiple applications are processed concurrently,
Plus $5 per dwelling unit (units)
the appropriate fee shall be charged for each application.
Er Notification Sign (City to install and remove) 200
Property Owners' List within 500' (City to generate after pre-application meeting) 3 per address
Cs- addresses)
Er Escrow for Recording Documents (check all that apply) 50 per document
Conditional Use Permit Interim Use Permit Site Plan Agreement
Vacation 12-Variance Wetland Alteration Permit
Metes & Bounds Subdivision (3 docs.)Easements ( easements) Deeds
TOTAL FEE:
Section 2: Required Information
Description of Proposal:
1n(vc>dh, 1i)
Property Address or Location: 3 N o`'ci I-1;11 cJe C.'Q'n kt 55Gi''
Parcel#: Z5". 160 1130 Legal Description: l- s .,( - " -A n- _ .3 I ' . A
2iv' x 'cc'
Total Acreage:Wetlands Present? Yes R'No f c5-1-0 evil ?a*0
Present Zoning: Select One Requested Zoning: Select One
Present Land Use Designation: Select One Requested Land Use Designation: SeleQJ F CHANHASSEN
Existing Use of Property: r'ZQ-s ,d et1+14..1 RECEIVED
Check box if separate narrative is attached. SEP 1 3 2019
SCANNED
CHANHASSEN PLANNING DEPT
Section 3: Property Owner and Applicant Information
APPLICANT OTHER THAN PROPERTY OWNER: In signing this application, I, as applicant, represent to have obtained
authorization from the property owner to file this application. I agree to be bound by conditions of approval, subject only to
the right to object at the hearings on the application or during the appeal period. If this application has not been signed by
the property owner, I have attached separate documentation of full legal capacity to file the application. This application
should be processed in my name and I am the party whom the City should contact regarding any matter pertaining to this
application. I will keep myself informed of the deadlines for submission of material and the progress of this application. I
further understand that additional fees may be charged for consulting fees, feasibility studies, etc. with an estimate prior to
any authorization to proceed with the study. I certify that the information and exhibits submitted are true and correct.
Name: Contact:
Address: Phone:
City/State/Zip: Cell:
Email: Fax:
Signature:Date:
PROPERTY OWNER: In signing this application, I, as property owner, have full legal capacity to, and hereby do,
authorize the filing of this application. I understand that conditions of approval are binding and agree to be bound by those
conditions, subject only to the right to object at the hearings or during the appeal periods. I will keep myself informed of
the deadlines for submission of material and the progress of this application. I further understand that additional fees may
be charged for consulting fees, feasibility studies, etc. with an estimate prior to any authorization to proceed with the
study. I certify that the information and exhibits submitted are true and correct.
Name: ore n ' gait Contact: jam(..-
Address: 3.3z kr-,,td 1/.// vi Phone: 9 ,Z - 9f /- cp /...P
City/State/Zip: e..1)6 7 A ass n 712/ 7 3/7 sell: 6/.4 - 9140 -404.2
Email:nh`f t ems,f th 1;i k. is t Fax: it7,0
Signature: L. Date:
Pr-
This
S tLy`G
application must be completed in full and must be accompanied by all information and plans required by
applicable City Ordinance provisions. Before filing this application, refer to the appropriate Application Checklist
and confer with the Planning Department to determine the specific ordinance and applicable procedural
requirements and fees.
A determination of completeness of the application shall be made within 15 business days of application submittal. A
written notice of application deficiencies shall be mailed to the applicant within 15 business days of application.
PROJECT ENGINEER (if applicable)
Name: Contact:
Address: Phone:
City/State/Zip: Cell:
Email: Fax:
Section 4: Notification Information
Who should receive copies o staff reports? Other Contact Information:
Property Owner Via: Email E Mailed Paper Copy Name:
Applicant Via: Email E Mailed Paper Copy Address:
Engineer Via: Email Mailed Paper Copy City/State/Zip:
Other* Via: Email Mailed Paper Copy Email:
INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT: Complete all necessary form fields, then select SAVE FORM to save a copy to your
device. PRINT FORM and deliver to city along with required documents and payment. SUBMIT FORM to send a digitallcopytothecityforprocessing. SAVE FORM PRINT FORM I SUBMIT FORM)
City of Chanhassen Community Development Department
Section 5 Variance Application Responses: 832 Wood Hill Drive
Septembet 73, 2079
{61 Written Justificatlon
a. Variances shall only be permltted when they are ln harmony wlth the general purposes and
intent of this Chapter (Section 20-58) and when the varlances are consistent wlth the
comprehensive plan.
Harmony of intent without the Section detail is difficult at this point. What we can say is that the
deign will be in harmony with the Carver Beach environment and will blend-in with its surroundings.
ln chanhassen we espouse to be "A community for Life. . . Providing for today and planning for
tomorrow." Our variance application is a request to give my husband and I a better life in
Chanhassen, providing for today so that while my husband is able we can enioy the outdoor space,
and planning for tomorrow when he is less able to access it on his own.
b. When there are practical difficuhies in complying wit r the zoning ordinance. "Practical
dfficultes'as used in the connection with fanting the varianoe, meaning the prop€rtY owner
proposes to u3e the property ln a reasonable manner not permltted by this chapter.
Our decision to build a screened deck is based on my husband, Mike's disability. He has
Huntington's Disease, which is a neuro-degenerative disorder that is incurable and fatal. we will
both soon be homebound as the disease progresses and Mike loses more cognition and motor
control.
From the Huntington's Diseose Society ol Americo (HDSA) website (yutut-hc!79.919 ):
Huntington's diseose (HD) is o fatol genetic disotder that couses the progressive breakdown of
nerve cells in the broin. lt deteriorotes o person's physicol ond mental abilities usuolly during
their prime working years ond hos no cure.
The life expectancy from the onset of this disease is estimated at 15-20 years. Based on the stages
of decline Mike is currently using a walker, but will soon need a wheel chair. I want to be his
Caregiver for as long as possible and keep him at home. We need to find new ways to enjoy living in
our home and experiencing the beautiful outdoor environment that Wood Hill Drive offers. Mike is
a "country boy''from Kansas and loves the hawks, owls, deer, turkey and fox that we have on The
Hill. The ease of access to the screened deck from our dining area sliding glass doors will make
those experiences more accessible to him and to us.
What is our practical difficulty basis for the variance? - Placing the screened deck roofed entrance
at our sliding glass doors with a 6.5' depth will easily allow Mike to wheel himself out the door
directly into the protected space. Our sliding doors could also stay open without letting insects into
the house allowing more time for egress, which is one of the primary interests we have in screening-
in the space. He would also only need to wheel himself six feet into the large screened area.rrv rrrt rqrEL ""''"""trii br cHANHASSEN
RECEIVED
sEP 13 2019
CHANHASSEN PLANNING DETT
Other practicality - Our house is built on a significant slope of the hill and immediately after we
purchased it, we leveled the back yard into two terraces. Therefore, the area in which the
submitted design is placed is level ground. Any other placement would involve water flow that
could cause erosion of the footings or that we change the grade or find other structural solutions
that would potentially add significant cost (also references the justification criteria in section C
below).
lf we moved the 12 X 12 screened deck to the East side of the house, which Bob Generous suggested
as an alternate location because it would not infringe on setbacks, the screened deck would be
placed in front of a 3-pane 8' X 5' casement window in our living room. That placement would both
block our view of the woods and would restrict sunlight into our home from what is a very private
outdoor view into the canopy of our trees. Also, my husband would need to push himself further in
an unprotected space to get to the screened deck area. Building the deck on a solid wall on the
North side that has no widows in the Living Room is the most practical spot.
c, That the purpose of the variation is not based upon economlc considerations alone.
The cost of this project is over 550,000 because we made decisions for a high-quality design using
composite deck materials that will perform well in our sometimes extreme weather conditions. The
shed roof will be shingled with the same brand and style as our current house roof. The railings and
posts will be of the same color clad aluminum as our current exterior windows.
d. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property and not created by
the landosmer.
We did not build this house, 832 Wood Hill Drive, however, we were the first occupants. The person
who bought the property and started to construst the house was foreclosed in 1989. The mortgage
lender was forced to finish the build as architecturally designed and we purchased it in December
1990. We did not choose the placement of the structure with the potential setback encroachment,
which was inherent in the design should anyone want to build a deck r an addition. Even thouSh an
open deck could be approved with the 5" allowance it is not workable for us.
e. The variance, lf granted will not alter the essential character ofthe locality.
The two neighbors to our North both have decks. Our neighbors on the West and East both have
patios. Our screened deck is set into the woods and will primarily be hidden by the canopies in the
Spring and Summer with manimal impact on our closest neighbors' outdoor environments
f. varlances will be granted for earth sheltered construcdon as detined ln Minnesota Statutes
Section 216C.06, suMivision 14, when in harmony with this Chapter.
This structure is not earth sheltered.
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Memorandum
To: MacKenzie Young-Walters, Associate Planner
From: Erik Henricksen, Project Engineer
CC: Jason Wedel, Public Works Director/City Engineer
Ryan Pinkalla, Water Resources Technician
Charlie Burke, Streets Superintendent
Date: 10/3/2019
Re: Rear Yard Setback Variance at 832 Woodhill Drive – Planning Case
2019-16
The Engineering Department has reviewed the Variance submittal for 832 Woodhill Drive.
These comments are divided into two categories: general comments and proposed conditions.
General comments are informational points to guide the applicant in the proper planning of
public works infrastructure for this project, to inform the applicant of possible extraordinary
issues and/or to provide the basis for findings. Proposed conditions are requirements that
Engineering recommends be formally imposed on the developer in the final order. Note that
references to the “City Standards” herein refer to the City of Chanhassen Standard
Specifications and Detail Plates.
General Comments/Findings
1. Any and all utility and transportation plans submitted with this application have been
reviewed for the purpose of determining the feasibility of providing utility and
transportation facilities for the project in accordance with City Standards. A
recommendation of variance approval does not constitute final approval of details,
including but not limited to alignments, materials and points of access, connection or
discharge, that are depicted or suggested in the application. The applicant is required to
submit detailed construction drawings and/or plat drawings for the project, as
applicable. The City of Chanhassen Engineering and Public Works Department will
review plans, in detail, when they are submitted and approve, reject or require
modifications to the plans or drawings based upon conformance with City Standards,
the Chanhassen Code of Ordinances and the professional engineering judgment of the
City Engineer.
2. It is the opinion of the Engineering Department that the proposed variance at 832
Woodhill Drive can be developed in accordance with the requirements of the
Chanhassen Code of Ordinances (as it pertains to Engineering and Public Works
requirements) and City Standards, provided it fully addresses the comments and
conditions contained herein, and can be approved.
3. The property is located within the Carver Beach subdivision and has no drainage and
utility easements recorded or platted on the property.
4. No improvements to the existing water or sanitary sewer services is proposed at this
time, and the property is served by a conforming driveway access off Woodhill Drive.
5. The survey provided appears to be from a building permit submittal from 2004. The
survey used for the 2004 submittal has a certificate of survey dated from the 1980s.
This dates the survey being used on the provided plans to be over 30 years old and
without an original signature (required under City Ordinances Sec. 7-19). As it is
probable there have been changes to the property that aren’t reflected on the older
survey (e.g. public utilities, structures, elevations, etc.), and as it does not meet the
requirements of Sec. 7-19, an updated survey must be submitted for review in
conjunction with the plan submittal for permits. See condition 1.
6. The applicant is proposing the installation of a deck on the north side of the existing
home which triggered the variance request for rear yard setbacks. The installation and
construction of the proposed deck off the home would bring the structure closer to an
existing public storm sewer pipe. The storm sewer pipe generally bisects the west
portion of the property from north to south. There is also a storm sewer manhole
located on the northwest portion of the property. Currently there are no easements for
the purpose of maintenance and repair over this existing storm sewer pipe and
manhole. In order to protect and maintain this public utility in perpetuity, an easement
must be recorded over it. See condition 2.
Proposed Conditions
1. Provide an updated survey with permit submittals that illustrates all existing utilities on
site and is in accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 7-19.
2. A 10-foot wide utility easement shall be recorded in perpetuity with the property for the
maintenance and repair of the storm sewer pipe and manhole located on the subject
property. This easement shall extend to the southern property line in order to access
the storm sewer pipe.
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF
REPORT
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Subject Approval of Planning Commission Minutes dated October 1, 2019
Section APPROVAL OF MINUTES Item No: C.1.
Prepared By Nann Opheim, City Recorder File No:
PROPOSED MOTION:
The Chanhassen Planning Commission recommends approval of the minutes from their October 1, 2019 meeting.
ATTACHMENTS:
Planning Commission Summary Minutes dated October 1, 2019
Planning Commission Verbatim Minutes dated October 1, 2019
CHANHASSEN PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
SUMMARY MINUTES
OCTOBER 1, 2019
Acting Chairman Randall called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mark Undestad, Mark Randall, Michael McGonagill, Doug Reeder,
and Laura Skistad
MEMBERS ABSENT: Steve Weick and John Tietz
STAFF PRESENT: MacKenzie Walters, Associate Planner; and Sharmeen Al-Jaff, Senior
Planner
PUBLIC PRESENT:
Brian Timm 6860 Lotus Trail
Randy Rutledge 680 Carver Beach Road
PUBLIC HEARING:
CONSIDER A REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE FOR LOT COVER AND FRONT YARD
SETBACK TO CONSTRUCT A SINGLE FAMILY HOME AT 690 CARVER BEACH
ROAD.
MacKenzie Walters presented the staff report on this item. Commissioner McGonagill asked for
clarification on the location and size of the rain garden. Acting Chairman Randall called the
public hearing to order. Randy Rutledge, 680 Carver Beach Road expressed concerns with
damage to trees located north and south of this property, how the rain garden is going to operate
before requesting a 5 year maintenance plan insuring the health of the trees to the north and
south. He also expressed concerns with the height of the building not fitting in with the character
of the neighborhood. Acting Chair Randall closed the public hearing. After comments from
commission members the following motion was made.
McGonagill moved, Undestad seconded that the Chanhassen Board of Appeals and
Adjustments approves a 5 foot front yard setback variance and a 9 percent lot cover
variance for the construction of a single family home, subject to the following conditions
and adopts the attached Findings of Fact and Decision:
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. The applicant must apply for and receive a demolition permit prior to removing the
existing structures.
Planning Commission Summary – October 1, 2019
2
3. The applicant must apply for and receive all necessary permits from the Watershed
District.
4. Construction traffic and parking cannot block emergency response road access.
5. The applicant must install a rain garden. The rain garden’s design and location must
be approved by the city’s Engineering Department.
6. Eaves may encroach up to an additional 24 inches into the required front yard
setback, as shown on the submitted plan.
7. The applicant shall resubmit the site plan which indicates the height of the retaining
wall (top of wall and bottom of wall elevations). Retaining walls shall be design in
accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 20-1025.
8. The applicant shall include all trees 6” dbh and larger on the building permit survey
and note tree(s) to be removed or preserved. All preserved trees in the rear yard must
be protected by fencing during construction.
9. One tree will be required to be planted in the front yard if no tree in the front yard is
present at the end of construction.
10. The applicant shall install tree protection fencing at 690 Carver Beach Road around
the neighboring oak to the south
11. Tree branches from neighboring trees shall be properly pruned by a certified arborist
before demolition activities begin.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Undestad noted the verbatim and summary
Minutes of the Planning Commission meeting dated September 17, 2019 as presented.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS: CITY COUNCIL ACTION UPDATE.
MacKenzie Walters provided an update on action taken by the City Council at their September
23, 2019 meeting and items scheduled for upcoming meetings.
Commissioner Undestad moved to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor and the motion
carried unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0 The Planning Commission meeting was
adjourned at 7:37 p.m.
Submitted by Kate Aanenson
Community Development Director
Prepared by Nann Opheim
CHANHASSEN PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 1, 2019
Acting Chairman Randall called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mark Undestad, Mark Randall, Michael McGonagill, Doug Reeder,
and Laura Skistad
MEMBERS ABSENT: Steve Weick and John Tietz
STAFF PRESENT: MacKenzie Walters, Associate Planner; and Sharmeen Al-Jaff, Senior
Planner
PUBLIC PRESENT:
Brian Timm 6860 Lotus Trail
Randy Rutledge 680 Carver Beach Road
PUBLIC HEARING:
CONSIDER A REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE FOR LOT COVER AND FRONT YARD
SETBACK TO CONSTRUCT A SINGLE FAMILY HOME AT 690 CARVER BEACH
ROAD.
Randall: MacKenzie do you want to tell us about it?
Walters: Yep absolutely. So this is Planning Case 2019-14. This will be going, this will be
handled here tonight. If appealed it would go to the City Council on October 28, 2019 for a final
determination. The applicant is requesting a 5 foot front yard setback variance and a 9 percent
lot cover variance to facilitate the construction of a single family home at 690 Carver Beach
Road. So the area is zoned Residential Single Family. It’s located in the shoreland overlay
district. What this means is the lot, the minimum lot size for this district is typically 15,000
square feet. It has a 30 foot front and rear setback. 10 foot side yard setback and is limited to 25
percent impervious surface coverage. The parcel in question is a sub-standard lot with only
6,000 square feet of lot area. It currently has 21 percent lot cover based on a survey submitted
by the applicant. It has a non-conforming 6.7 foot side yard setback here. Front yard setback is
currently a non-conforming 15.3 feet and then there’s currently a garage that is about 1 foot over
the neighbor’s property line to the south. It does meet the required 30 foot rear setback however.
This graphic here shows where the buildable area would be if all setbacks were met and the area
in red is the existing structures. The applicant is proposing to remove the existing home and
construct a new single family home. The footprint of that home is shown here in green. I have
the porch in blue and then walkway and driveway in gray. As mentioned to do this they would
need a 5 foot front yard setback variance and then they’d be going to about 34 percent lot cover
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
2
so they’d need a 9 percent lot cover variance. The main justification for this is the small size of
the lot. At 6,000 square feet it is not actually possible to construct a new home that meets the
minimum requirements of the city code without a lot cover variance. Because they recognize
that 9 percent lot cover is substantially above 25 they are proposing a rain garden to help
mitigate some of the impervious surface and they do know that this project would bring the side
yards into compliance as well as reduce the existing non-conformity of the front yard by
increasing the front yard setback by 10 feet. They also noted that a very similar variance was
approved for the property immediately behind this property. In 2001 the City granted that
property a 5 ½ foot front setback variance, a 7 foot side yard variance and an 11 foot lot cover
variance so, and that was also for a 6,000 square foot lot. So they noted that it was consistent
with what had previously been granted in the area. We have been contacted by 2 residents. One
in favor sent an email which I believe we, you have in front of you. They stated that the property
in it’s current state is an eye sore and they feel that a new home would be a huge improvement
for the area. We did have a resident contact us with concerns. They were particularly concerned
with the impact of the trees on the neighboring properties. They noted that the construction
activities would likely cause some damage to the root structure of the trees that are on the
neighboring properties and that likely trimming would need to be done which could damage the
trees and the branches for the overhangs. They felt the building was too massive and that two
stories would be out of place next to the neighboring one story houses. They had concerns about
the amount of lot cover proposed and also concerns about grading and elevations. We had the
Environmental Resources Coordinator look over the trees, and I actually went out to the site with
her. She believes that with good pruning, professionally done and effective tree preservation
there isn’t a serious risk to the neighboring trees. Her memo’s included in your staff report as
well as the conditions she would like to place on the variance in order to protect those trees.
Regarding the building’s height, it is under the maximum height permitted by the zoning code so
it is a by rights in regards to the height. The absolutely amount of proposed lot cover, while staff
acknowledges 34 percent is quite a bit larger than 29 percent. In absolute terms you’re looking
at about 2,000 square feet of lot cover which is a pretty small footprint for a home and garage
and we do note that a rain garden will hopefully help mitigate some of that runoff. Regarding
the grading, the final grading and elevations are something we’ll review as part of the building
permit process if the variance is granted and that’s when engineering will scrutinize and that will
be expected to be at final level. Right now this is to be considered to be preliminary. So I
mostly touched on these points in my previous comments but staff’s assessment of the request is
that it’s not possible to construct a single family home on this property without a variance.
Therefore the question is what is a reasonable variance. Staff looked it over. Proposed house
size is about a 2,000 square foot living area. Average house size in the U.S. is about 2,600
square feet so it’s certainly not an excessively sized home. Code requires a minimum 2 car
garage as well as minimum footprints. Again this isn’t significantly beyond those minimums.
One of the reasons why the applicant proposed reducing the front yard by 5 feet was because that
cuts about 1 ½ percent off the impervious coverage. It’s a little bit of a balancing act. The
further you push the house back on the property the more lot cover you end up with. Staff feels
this does a good job of balancing setback and lot cover. Staff does appreciate that one non-
conforming setback is being reduced and that two have been removed and brought into
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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compliance with code and staff notes this less extensive than the variance that was granted to the
neighboring property for the construction of a new home. For these reasons staff recommends
approval and I’ll be happy to take any questions you have at this time.
McGonagill: MacKenzie I have one question on the drawing. Where’s the rain garden going?
Walters: Yep so it’s not on the survey there. I believe the proposed location is in this quadrant
where we have the water moving along the side to hopefully capture that before it hits the road.
The design and final location of the rain garden would be subject to approval by the City’s Water
Resources Coordinator and engineering department but I believe that’s the location we discussed
with the applicant.
McGonagill: And the applicant’s talking about a professionally designed rain garden.
Something that would be adequately designed with the drainage. French drains, etcetera to bring
the water in there and try to retain it long enough.
Walters: The requirement for the condition of the variance as staff has written is that it be
designed and approved by the engineering department so it would have to meet our standards
and we’d have to believe it would work as intended for it to meet the condition.
McGonagill: So just one final question on that rain garden MacKenzie. Do you happen to have
a general square foot rain garden? I’m just, I’m trying to put it in context with some that I’ve
worked around and been around.
Walters: Yep to be honest I don’t believe that’s been determined. It was something the
applicant expressed a willingness to do. We placed it as a condition. I don’t believe they’ve met
with the Water Resources Coordinator to discuss size or actual details of construction.
McGonagill: Okay. And there’s going to be a retaining wall on that bottom, what I call the
bottom of the lot. Is that what that is?
Walters: Yeah there’d be a retaining wall here on the south as well as a retaining wall here on
the north with a gap. To facilitate the stairs and walkway.
McGonagill: Okay so the driveway would actually be down and the retaining wall would be,
okay. Got it. Thank you MacKenzie.
Randall: Any further questions for staff? Alright I guess we’ll move onto the applicant. The
applicant want to come forward?
Adam Loken’s Dad: Good evening. Thank you council members. I am Adam’s dad. He’s on
his honeymoon in Italy. We want to get this project going because you know what comes next.
So I’m willing to answer any questions. I’m pretty familiar with the property and can answer
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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any questions you might have. His goal today is to for sure get the variance so he can start his
demolition permit before frost and get his basement in.
McGonagill: Why don’t you just take us through why you ended up with the design that he did?
Adam Loken’s Dad: I’m sorry.
McGonagill: Could you just take us through quickly why he ended up with the design he did.
His thought process for the house.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Well he wanted to remodel about 1927 cabin and I, we had to have hazmat
suits to get in there and I just convinced him all you’re going to have is a remodeled 1927 cabin
so he wanted to move forward and went through a pretty extensive design process with a couple
different draftsmen and architects to find something that fit. Kind of like your Lake Minnetonka
50 foot lots. You want to do something stacked and tucked under and that’s what his process
was to try to come up with a design.
McGonagill: So he, basically what he did in order to make it conforming he brought it, made it
narrow but that forced him to go up.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Yeah. The garage he pretty much had to eliminate that because it was on
the neighbor’s property and then to get anything of value to match the neighborhood he needed
to do something of a nicer design with a two story tuck under and I think he’s put that together.
McGonagill: Okay, thank you sir.
Adam Loken’s Dad: I think it will be a nice addition to the neighborhood and certainly a better
tax advantage for the City.
Reeder: What happens to the, there’s a…in front of the house now. Is that gone?
Adam Loken’s Dad: That would have to be cut away for the tuck under garage.
Reeder: And the trees are gone too?
Adam Loken’s Dad: Yes.
Reeder: Alright.
Adam Loken’s Dad: And they are beautiful. I just went there. They’re beautiful maples but to
try to get a drive that comes off of the road that works it’s got to be cut down.
Reeder: So the driveway come in at street level then pretty much?
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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Adam Loken’s Dad: Yes. Yes.
Reeder: Okay.
Randall: Any other questions? Alright seeing none sir, we’ll have the public come up and
speak.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Okay great, thank you.
Randall: Thank you.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Mike did you just work at Superior Plating?
McGonagill: No sir.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Okay. There was a Mike McGonagill that was part owner there.
McGonagill: Probably better looking.
Randall: Alright, we’ll open this up for the public hearing. You’re welcomed to approach and
state your name and your address and any comments that you have regarding the proposed
variance. Good evening sir.
Randy Rutledge: Good evening. My name is Randy Rutledge. I’m the property owner at 680
Carver Beach Road. I’m the property adjacent to the south side of the proposed project. I had
some, well concerns I guess over this, over the proposed project one of which was obviously the
trees. I did make a call to staff. I believe I spoke to in regards to that and after reading the, Jill
Sinclair’s memo, totally agree with the concerns that she put forth. You know the heavy
equipment driving on the roots. All of the compaction. The fill. The cutting of the roots and
then if we don’t manage to kill the tree on the underside then we’re looking at arborist costs to
then trim the trees literally straight up. Both the north and the south side trees will be extremely
affected both of which are well over 100 year old trees. That’s a major concern of I guess myself
causing an undue hardship long term here because most of those trees are not going to show any
damage or immediate response to the damage caused by the construction for at least 2 years and
I’ve been told somewhere between 2 and 5 by most arborists I spoke to and really what I guess I
you know am concerned about is the water retention/rain garden being not shown. Grading plans
not submitted how he’s going to handle all the water on the property. That’s going to be a tough
one when he’s trying to stick it behind a retaining wall. I’m not quite sure how he’s going to do
that and the major one for me is the long term care and maintenance of these trees and possibly
removal. Rich to the north and myself would be both impacted and have an undue hardship on
the basis of financial removal of these trees and from the impact of the construction. And I guess
I’m looking, you know I’m not opposed to obviously a new house going in there but I guess I’d
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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you know to say that the tree is going to be fine for the limited access to the rear of the property
as you can see I don’t know how he plans on getting all of the said rain garden, said materials,
back fill equipment through that 10 foot without driving you know directly over the root
structure. Now Jill Sinclair also mentioned in her memorandum that she proposed a protection
ring and such around the trees. Generally that would encompass that 10 foot section that
adjacent to the house to the property line. I’m not exactly sure how that’s going to be handled.
That would be a major concern if that’s maintained as well as the erosion control during the
course of the construction which you did mention in your recommendations. The other one, so
I’m basically requesting that a maintenance plan be put in place of some sort of a 5 year or
something of that nature to maintain those trees, both north and south side. If I had something
like that I guess I would feel a little bit more secure in the fact that the property and the
construction would be at least, you know there would be a cost to cover the removal of the tree
obviously if he kills it. Both on the north and south because the north side he’s going to be
putting window wells and such into that side of the property as well. Digging into the impact of
that tree as well so those are my two major points of concern and I don’t know if you can impose
that 5 year maintenance plan to cover all those trees long term. If that’s even possible but that’s
kind of what I’m looking for because I can, I don’t know exactly how he plans on doing it or
how that logistically could take place to accomplish the grading that would need to be done to
establish that rain garden or said rain garden, which we don’t know where it’s at or how it’s
going to be constructed or how it’s going to handle that amount of water. Now in this area, been
there for quite a few years you know and it handles a lot of water coming down through those,
those neighborhoods as I’m sure you guys are well aware so. I guess those are my only requests
or only considerations I guess I would ask the council to, the commission to take into.
McGonagill: Before you sit down Mr. Chairman may I ask a question?
Randall: Sure, go ahead.
McGonagill: Can you show me on the drawing where the tree’s he’s talking about are?
Walters: Sorry that mic was off. My recollection was that the one was right around here was a
large honey locust and I believe the red oak was there but I could be off because they are not
shown on the survey.
McGonagill: I think they could show it on the overhead.
Randy Rutledge: Can you do that?
Walters: Oh yeah we got a document camera.
McGonagill: On paper yes.
Walters: Put it on there sir.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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McGonagill: Very good, thank you. So my question is these trees, I’m trying to figure out
who’s property they’re on to start with so why don’t you.
Randy Rutledge: Rich is to the north and they’re.
McGonagill: Rich is Mr. Who?
Randy Rutledge: I don’t, I can’t remember Rich’s last name.
McGonagill: Okay.
Randy Rutledge: It’s right, that tree right up here.
McGonagill: Okay and your property is to the south?
Randy Rutledge: This is the red oak.
McGonagill: And you’re mister?
Randy Rutledge: Randy Rutledge.
McGonagill: Mr. Rutledge, okay thank you Mr. Rutledge.
Reeder: Is that a retaining wall in front of that tree? The height differentiation there of 2-3 feet
isn’t there?
Randy Rutledge: No it’s about one foot.
Reeder: Okay.
Randall: So do you have issues with water coming into your yard now because I see the street
photo of it and it looks like there’s like a downward slope down to where your house is.
Randy Rutledge: Actually there was a, well it’s kind of gotten troughed.
Randall: Yep.
Randy Rutledge: So we troughed it right down the property line.
Randall: Okay.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
8
Randy Rutledge: So that’s currently where the water flow is going and it’s basically directly
down from the rear all the way down.
Randall: Okay.
McGonagill: And so you’ve had, if I may. If the garage was actually on your property if I recall
right from the original drawing to the south.
Randy Rutledge: Correct.
McGonagill: And so it was dumping I guess looking at the slope of the garage it was probably
dumping water on your as well right?
Randy Rutledge: Correct.
McGonagill: So getting that out of the way should help the water.
Randy Rutledge: The water situation yes. I’m just kind of curious as to how he plans on using a
retaining wall at the garage side while maintaining a rain garden. Those two usually don’t go
together too well but it can be done. But I guess my more, the biggest concern is the tree, or
trees. Mine in particular because if he’s got to run that equipment I don’t know how he’s going
to get to the back yard conceivably within the, because you know they’ll resize the foundation to
accommodate the foundation installation and you’re still going to need equipment around the
facility, or around the house.
Reeder: How far off your property line is your tree?
Randy Rutledge: About 3 ½ feet. Maybe 4.
McGonagill: And the two trees in the front will have to come out MacKenzie said?
Randy Rutledge: Yeah those would be gone. Those are the two there, which are really nice trees
so I’m trying to I guess put forth a concern I guess of trying to maintain at least some of the old
growth trees in the neighborhood.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Randy if I might interrupt. What kind of tree is that? Is that a maple?
Randy Rutledge: Red oak.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Oak so. So they have a 10 foot root base in that wouldn’t affect it if it
doesn’t work good.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
9
Randy Rutledge: No. According to Jill Sinclair, I don’t know if you read that memorandum that
she put out, no the root structure does not do well under equipment.
Adam Loken’s Dad: And knowing that the south setback is in conformity. I’m just trying, I’m
trying to think of the construction. I’m a contractor and I’m trying to think of the construction
starting on the northeast and coming around and minimalizing less effect you know.
Randy Rutledge: The compaction.
Adam Loken’s Dad: The root damage and I’m sure Adam would be more than willing to put a
30 foot fence around that root ball or root barrier. I think 30 foot is protective of that?
Randy Rutledge: It would be but you don’t have that from the edge of the construction. The
corner of the construction of the building to the base of the.
Adam Loken’s Dad: It’s only 10 feet.
Randy Rutledge: It’s 10 feet. So that’s my major concern and that’s why I’m asking for the
insurance policy basically on the tree as long as, as well as maintenance because the odds of
taking this thing out and it’s probably a $3,000 tree if the construction goes and kills it.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Another question would be could an arborist provide any documentation
and/or research study where if you took off the branches along the north side of the tree it would
minimalize the root damage?
Randall: Sir, we just have this public forum. You’ve already had your chance to speak. I’m not
trying to, the trees. One of the things we’re dealing with is the setback variance and I understand
the trees are a concern right now.
Randy Rutledge: Yes.
Randall: But we’re really focused on the variances right now.
Randy Rutledge: Yes.
Randall: The issue of the trees is there and I think it’s been raised as a concern.
Randy Rutledge: Correct.
Randall: Do you have any concerns about the setback or anything like that with the variance or?
Randy Rutledge: Yes. There was a concern on the front street setback. There’s multiple
different ways to get to the hard cover. I know that the recommendation was to have the
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
10
consistency of the houses that was approved across the way, there was a reasoning for that
because he was forced up by the swamp and the wetlands area. In this particular case I don’t see
that being a really big concern and I think because of the 35, it’s basically a 35 though it wasn’t
clearly called out on the plans, foot he is within the height requirements of the city but this
thing’s going to look like a sheer wall when you drive down the street. It’s going to go straight
up and now we’re moving it closer to the road so aesthetically that’s going to be even harder to
kind of you know look at if you want to call it that. It’s not, there’s nothing soft about it. It’s
literally a 35 foot straight up in the air sheer wall so that was another concern that I had. That
was and as far as affecting the aesthetics of the neighborhood.
Randall: Okay.
Randy Rutledge: Now there’s other ways to get to the hard cover. Saying that he leaves his
house the same size just moves it back, you know pervious pavers. There’s all kinds of different
aspects you could address there to accommodate the hard cover. As well as there was one other
aspect that was not included. It said it was going to be presented at some point is this rear deck
that is not on any of the prints that was provided by the city or provided by you guys or provided
by him and that would encroach onto the rear setback currently so that would have to be also
something else dealt with on that one if the house were to move back so that’s another thought.
But I guess the big one is the front yard hard cover because obviously it would affect the trees
and more so with the larger size house. I know he’s within the setbacks but odds are that if the
hard cover was observed the house would shrink most likely leaving more room for the tree but I
guess that’s kind of where I’m at at the moment.
Randall: Alright, thank you. Anyone else from who wishes to speak? Anyone? Alright.
Alright we’ll move onto our discussion about that.
Walters: Would the Chair like to close the hearing please?
Randall: Yes we’ll close the hearing now. We’ll close the public hearing and move onto
discussion. Go ahead. I can tell you want to talk.
Undestad: Well I mean again looking at the plan it looks like they’ve done a lot of work to clean
up a lot of issues that are already existing on there. You know it sounded like the main concern
was the trees on here. I think that the trees were old. Obviously they’re old trees but looking at
where the garage to the north sits in relation to that tree and the garage to the south in relation to
that tree, I’m sure those structures were built around those trees and they’re still doing well today
and my guess is if they follow Jill’s recommendations and minimize the impact around there, I
just don’t know how we could put a, put anything on the homeowner to say you know if
something happens to that tree you’re going to do something about it.
Randall: Yep.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
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Undestad: If something happened to that tree that has nothing to do with the homeowner so I
don’t really know we could put any restrictions on that. Aside from that I think that there’s been
a, for that small of a lot I think they did an outstanding job of trying to make something look nice
on there and minimize the impacts that they could have done so.
McGonagill: I concur with that. That you know they’ve narrowed it down. Tried to take care of
all the non-conformities. Gotten a structure off of a neighbor’s property which is always a good
thing to clean it up. Rain gardens do work. I have one. I have a large one and I was surprised
how good it works so I’m a real supporter of those if they, they do a nice job if they’re put in
professional and I’m sure they will. And you know the trees are a concern but I just, there’s no,
you can’t protect everything with this and so I think it’s an improvement to the neighborhood.
Reeder: I happen to live in the neighborhood about a block from this house and I think that what
they’re proposing is exactly what makes sense. The point of one story houses as you know
there’s one story and there’s two and three stories all over this area and they’ve been, a lot of one
stories have been replaced but I think what he’s proposed here makes a lot of sense. It fits on
that little lot. I think he has the right to have a house on that lot. We can’t make the lot any
bigger and I think that what the proposal is fits in. It’s too bad to lose those trees in their front
yard. I feel bad about that. I don’t think we can do anything as far as protecting trees on
anybody else’s lot except there are requirements during construction we try to do the kind of
thing he suggested. Put as much a barrier and keeping trucks off of the root area. The drip line
of that tree as much as possible and I think we can require that as part of the staff approval and I
think that’s all we can do. We certainly, I don’t, I’m not aware if ever required one neighbor to
insure the other guy’s tree so I don’t think that’s something I’d be interested. I think it’s a
wonderful addition to the neighborhood.
Skistad: And I would concur with all of you on everything that you said. I just have a point of
order question which I don’t really need to ask. I’ll ask afterwards but I think it makes sense as
well.
Randall: Alright. I guess I’ll do mine. I appreciate everyone’s input on it. My thoughts on it,
you know the variance, you know in these neighborhoods especially where these back in 1927
these were all small cabin lots at one time. Chanhassen’s changed since then. If people are
trying to add homes that they can actually live in at the time. I would assume with your son
being in Italy that he’s going to want to make the neighbors happy and try to preserve those trees
as much as possible. Now that you guys know about that, that can be an issue with the
contractor to try to save those trees at the time. As far as the aesthetics go, I understand that
concern from people but you know it’s private property and if people want to build a house that
looks like a star they can do it. To me it looks like the house is going to fit into the
neighborhood and eventually there’s going to be a lot of turnover in that neighborhood where
homes will come up to that standard and it’s one of those neighborhoods too which makes
Chanhassen unique. That you can have a variation of houses in that neighborhood of all
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
12
different generations and they all fit in together. I’ll be in favor of the variance if someone
would like to make a motion.
McGonagill: Before we do that.
Randall: Yeah.
McGonagill: I applaud the neighbors for coming and talking openly and honestly to each other
here tonight. This is the proper forum for doing that. I think you all handled, each of you all
handled yourself very well and we appreciate that and I do hope as babies do come, and I hope
they do to the neighborhood, that everyone will be welcomed there and so thank you all for that
response for coming here tonight. I’ll make the motion sir.
Randall: Go ahead.
McGonagill: The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and Adjustments approves a 5 foot front yard
setback variance and a 9 percent lot cover variance for the construction of a single family home
subject to the conditions of approval and adopts the attached Findings of Fact and Decision.
Randall: Do we have a second?
Undestad: Second.
Randall: Alright I have a second. All in favor of the proposed motion.
McGonagill: Any further discussion?
Randall: Any further discussion? Alright. So my parliamentary procedure is off a little bit
alright. We’ll take a vote on it.
McGonagill moved, Undestad seconded that the Chanhassen Board of Appeals and
Adjustments approves a 5 foot front yard setback variance and a 9 percent lot cover
variance for the construction of a single family home, subject to the following conditions
and adopts the attached Findings of Fact and Decision:
1. The applicant must apply for and receive a building permit.
2. The applicant must apply for and receive a demolition permit prior to removing the
existing structures.
3. The applicant must apply for and receive all necessary permits from the Watershed
District.
4. Construction traffic and parking cannot block emergency response road access.
5. The applicant must install a rain garden. The rain garden’s design and location must
be approved by the city’s Engineering Department.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
13
6. Eaves may encroach up to an additional 24 inches into the required front yard
setback, as shown on the submitted plan.
7. The applicant shall resubmit the site plan which indicates the height of the retaining
wall (top of wall and bottom of wall elevations). Retaining walls shall be design in
accordance with City Code of Ordinances Sec. 20-1025.
8. The applicant shall include all trees 6” dbh and larger on the building permit survey
and note tree(s) to be removed or preserved. All preserved trees in the rear yard must
be protected by fencing during construction.
9. One tree will be required to be planted in the front yard if no tree in the front yard is
present at the end of construction.
10. The applicant shall install tree protection fencing at 690 Carver Beach Road around
the neighboring oak to the south
11. Tree branches from neighboring trees shall be properly pruned by a certified arborist
before demolition activities begin.
All voted in favor and the motion carried unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0.
Randall: The motion passes for the variance.
Reeder: You want to tell him when it’s going to come to the council?
Randall: Well it will be coming to the council, what’s the date for that MacKenzie?
Walters: So if appealed, and for the record any individual aggrieved by this decision has the
right to submit an appeal in writing. There’s a 4 business day window to do that. If appealed
this variance would go before the City Council on October 28th. If an appeal is not received
within 4 days this would be a permanent decision and the variance would go into effect.
Adam Loken’s Dad: Is that 4 days from today or before that meeting?
Walters: Four days from today so if I do not receive an appeal by 4:30 Monday then it would,
then a letter of approval will be sent out to the applicant.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Commissioner Undestad noted the verbatim and summary
Minutes of the Planning Commission meeting dated September 17, 2019 as presented.
ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS: CITY COUNCIL ACTION UPDATE.
Randall: MacKenzie can we get a City Council update?
Walters: You can indeed. At the Monday, September 23rd meeting the council approved the
Interim Use Permit for Moon Valley that had, came before you previously and they also upheld
the requested variance to replace and move a septic system for the property at 1181 Homestead
Lane. So those were the two items that went before the City Council.
Chanhassen Planning Commission – October 1, 2019
14
Randall: Can you shut that door real quick? Thank you ma’am for doing that for us.
Walters: Sorry, would you like me to repeat that or did it come through?
Randall: Oh why don’t you go ahead and repeat it.
Walters: Alright, so the first item was the Interim Use Permit for the Moon Valley gravel pit.
The council approved that and then also the bluff setback variance for the septic system at 1181
Homestead Lane was also approved so those were the two action items that went before the
council.
Randall: Okay. Alright anything more that you need to add about that or anything coming up
that we need to know about?
Walters: Yep in terms of stuff coming up, next meeting there will be a rear yard setback
variance request for 832 Woodhill to discuss putting a screen porch, 6 foot encroachment into the
rear setback so you’ll be getting that staff report oh in a week or so.
Randall: Okay.
Walters: And then on November 19th there will be a bunch of code amendments so I would
recommend you caffeinate yourselves because I’ve got about 14 of them in the works and it
could go long. So that’s what I know of that’s coming up.
Randall: Alright. Do we have any presentations at all by members of the commission? Point of
order that you wanted to talk about?
Skistad: I’ll ask afterwards.
Randall: Okay. Alright, does anyone have anything further to add?
Commissioner Undestad moved to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor and the motion
carried unanimously with a vote of 5 to 0 The Planning Commission meeting was
adjourned at 7:37 p.m.
Submitted by Kate Aanenson
Community Development Director
Prepared by Nann Opheim