VAR24-11 Project Narrative

City of Glendale — Regular Meeting (2025-08-14)

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Variance Project Narrative: Personal Garage at 5618 W. Marconi Ave., 
Glendale, Arizona 85306. VAR24-11 
Introduction 
This project seeks a variance for constructing a 20x50 personal garage on a 
residential property in Glendale, Arizona. The garage, designed with 12-foot-high 
garage doors at each end, will be a secure and functional space for storing and 
maintaining the owner's multiple vehicles . The leg(eve) height would be 16 feet 
tall to allow a 2 foot clearance for door to roll up giving the building a peak height 
of 16 feet. Given the property's specific layout and spatial constraints, a variance is 
requested to accommodate the proposed positioning of the garage relative to the 
property lines and existing structures. The diving pool in the center of the yard 
does not allow for the garage to be placed in any other location on the property.  
Project Description 
The proposed garage is a single-story building with the following dimensions and 
features: 
• Size: 20 feet in width and 50 feet in length. 
• Height: 12-foot-high garage doors at both ends for drive-through access and 
16 feet peak height. 
• Location: 
o 3 feet from the west property line which is what the variance is 
being requested for.   
o 2.06 feet from the nearest section of the pool deck to the east. 
(meets code) 
o 6 feet off the concrete slab at the south end of the property there is 
no roof covering on this concrete slab, which is 19 feet from the 
principal structure. (6 feet from fire rated patio roof line plus 14 
feet of patio to principal structure). (meets code) 
o 10.85 feet from the north property fence, which is 16.39 feet from 
actual property line and is what the variance is being requested 
for. 
Permitted maximum lot coverage is 35%: 1839 SQ FT main dwelling 
+500 SQ FT attached garage +742 SQ FT porch +784 SQ FT carport 
+156 SQ FT shed + 1000 SQ FT proposed garage =  5021 SQ FT. Lot 
size is 16,723 SQ FT giving a total lot coverage with new proposed RV 
garage of 30.02% (meets code) 
Project Narrative Received - 01.13.2025

Accessory buildings may not exceed 50% of the primary structure’s 
building footprint. The building footprint for the primary structure is 
2339 SQ FT (1839 sq ft home plus attached 500 sq ft garage). The shed 
which is the only existing accessory building  is 156 SQ Ft added to the 
proposed garage of 1000 SQ FT would keep detached accessory 
buildings to 49.42%. (meets code) 
Material: Garage will be built from steel and then painted to match the visual 
appearance and color to the principal structure.  All basic elevations will be found 
on the floorplan. 
The specific placement of the garage is designed to maximize usability while 
maintaining compliance with safety and accessibility standards. Garage will be 
able to be accessed through the existing carport. 
Justification for Variance 
The requested variance is necessary due to the unique characteristics and 
constraints of the property, which include: 
• Property Layout: The irregular positioning of existing structures, such as 
the porch, site built shed, and pool deck limits the available space for new 
construction.  All structures were there prior to purchasing the property. 
• Minimal Impact: The proposed placement of the garage minimizes impact 
on neighboring properties and maintains adequate setbacks to ensure safety 
and accessibility. 
Goals and Objectives 
• Primary Goal: To construct a fully functional garage that meets the owner’s 
needs for storage. 
• Objectives: 
1. Obtain a variance to allow the shop to be built as proposed. 
2. Ensure the shop design accommodates the owners needs and complies 
with building codes. 
3. Complete construction within the allocated budget and timeline. 
4. Maintain good relations with neighbors by minimizing disruption and 
adhering to agreed-upon setbacks. 
Methodology

• Planning and Design: Develop detailed architectural plans, ensuring the 
structure fits within the specified dimensions and distances from other 
property features. 
• Variance Application: Submit a formal application for the variance, 
including this narrative and supporting documents. 
• Community Engagement: Inform and engage with neighboring property 
owners to address concerns and garner support for the variance. 
• Construction: 
o Prepare the site by clearing and leveling the land. 
o Lay the foundation and construct the frame of the building. 
o Install garage doors, roofing, and exterior finishes. 
o Connect necessary utilities (electricity, water, etc.). 
• Inspection and Certification: Conduct regular inspections to ensure quality 
and adherence to the plan, culminating in final approval from local building 
inspectors. 
Project Team 
• Project Manager: The owner will oversee the project, ensuring timely and 
within-budget completion. 
• Construction Crew: Executes the construction plan, including foundation, 
framing, and finishing. 
• City Planner: Gurnoor Kaur Tschudy 
Resources 
Resources Required: 
o Construction materials (concrete, steel, wood, etc.). 
o Heavy machinery for excavation and construction. 
o Skilled labor for construction and installation. 
o Permits and inspection fees. 
Evaluation and Metrics 
• Success Criteria: 
o Approval of the variance by local authorities. 
o Compliance with all local building codes and regulations. 
o Positive feedback from initial users regarding the shop’s functionality 
and accessibility.

Sustainability and Impact 
• Sustainability Plan: Utilize durable and eco-friendly materials to ensure 
long-term use. Implement energy-efficient lighting and ventilation systems. 
• Impact: The garage will provide a secure and functional space for the 
owner’s vehicles, promoting responsible storage and maintenance. The 
project will also enhance the overall utility of the property without 
significantly impacting the surrounding community and increase property 
value. 
Conclusion 
This project narrative outlines the need for a variance to construct a 20x50 personal  
garage on the owner's property in Glendale, Arizona. The proposed garage will 
meet the owner’s needs while adhering to safety and accessibility standards. The 
variance will enable optimal shop placement within the property’s constraints, 
ensuring minimal impact on neighboring properties. We seek approval of this 
variance to construct a valuable addition to the property. 
Appendices (if applicable) 
• Site plan and floor plan 
• Permit applications and approvals. 
• Letters of support from neighboring property owners or community 
members. 
By granting this variance, the city will enable the property owner to 
create a functional and beneficial space that enhances the property’s 
utility and value.