BZA #2025-00012 408 East Monroe Avenue Public Hearing and consideration of a request for a Variance to construct an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) forward of the front building wall of the principal dwelling; zoned: R-B/Residential Townhouse Applicant: Jared and Olivia Griffin

The Board of Zoning Appeals is considering a variance request for 408 East Monroe Avenue to allow the construction of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) forward of the front building wall of the principal dwelling. The property is zoned RB/Residential Townhouse.

Background:

• The property is a substandard lot with a principal dwelling built in 1930, substantially rebuilt in 1997.
• The existing dwelling is located very close to the rear and side property lines due to historical lot subdivision, making it impossible to place an ADU behind the front building wall.
• The applicants, Jared and Olivia Griffin, propose to build a one-story ADU with a basement in the front yard.

Variance Justification:

• Strict application of the ordinance would prevent reasonable use of the property for an ADU due to the existing dwelling's placement.
• The hardship is unique to this property due to its lot dimensions and the placement of the existing home.
• The proposed ADU complies with all other zoning requirements (height, setbacks, FAR, open space).

Staff Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the variance, with the condition that an existing 6.00 ft fence in the front yard be removed and replaced with a fence no more than 4.00 ft in height and 50% open. The variance must be recorded with the deed before a building permit is released.

Departmental Comments:

• Development Engineering requires compliance with building permits, right-of-way repair, and utility easement regulations.
• Code Administration notes a building permit is required.
• Recreation (City Arborist) requires compliance with landscape guidelines and tree coverage requirements.
• Historic Alexandria (Archaeology) notes potential for archaeological remains and requires notification if discovered.

Community Input:

• The Del Ray Citizens Association (DRCA) supports the ADU variance but opposes the proposed driveway configuration, preferring tandem parking and more landscaping in the front yard.