02. BA240035 BOA Report

Maricopa County — Board of Adjustment (2025-02-13)

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Report to the Board of Adjustment 
Prepared by the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department 
 
 
Case:   
 
 
BA240035 – Boynton Residence Pergola  
 
Hearing Date:  
 
February 13, 2025 
 
Supervisor District: 
 
3 
____________________________________________________________________________________________ 
 
Applicant:  
Nate Banghart, Straight Line Landscape 
 
Property Owners: 
Boynton Robert Wood III/April 
 
Request: 
Variance to the development standard of the Maricopa County Zoning 
Ordinance to permit: 
 
1) 
Proposed east side yard setback of 4’ where 7’ is the minimum permitted 
in the R1-8 RUPD zoning district per MCZO Article 604.4.2. 
 
Site Location: 
APN 202-23-275 @ 3745 W. Abrams Dr. in the Anthem/New River area 
 
Site Size: 
 
 
11,832 sq. ft.  
 
Current Use / Zoning: 
Single-family residence / R1-8 RUPD 
 
Open Violation: 
No Violation on Property 
 
Background: 
 
1. 
November 8, 2012: The parcel is recorded as lot 31 of the Arroyo Norte – Units 5, 6, & 7 
Subdivision via survey MCR-2012-1016830 
 
2. 
December 23, 2015: The single-family residence was built under building permit B20150859. 
 
3. 
September 16, 2020: The current owner takes possession of the subject parcel, per deed 
20200869232. 
 
4. 
October 25, 2024: The applicant submitted permit BLDR2403977 for a new lattice patio cover, 
pergola, attached to the existing residence. Plan Review commented that it does not meet the 
minimum required side yard setback in the R1-8 RUPD zoning district. 
 
5. 
December 10, 2024: The applicant applied for the subject variance. 
 
Existing On-Site and Surrounding Zoning/Land Use: 
 
6. 
On-site: 
R1-8 RUPD / Single Family Residence 
 
North:  
R1-8 RUPD / Single Family Residence 
South:  
R1-8 RUPD / Single Family Residence 
East: 
 
R1-8 RUPD / Single Family Residence 
 
West:  
R1-8 RUPD / Single Family Residence

Page 2 of 7 
 
Variance Request: 
 
7. 
The applicant desires to attach a 450 sq. ft. pergola on the east side of his residence. An attached 
pergola is considered part of the primary building and must meet the 7’ minimum setback that 
defines the principal building envelope.  If detached, an accessory structure does not have to 
meet the same setback.  The applicant submitted building permit BLDR2403977 for the pergola, 
but because it’s attached and fails to meet the setback it will not be permitted in the proposed 
location unless a variance is approved.  The variance request is for a proposed side yard setback, 
for the eastern property line, of 4’ where 7’ is minimum permitted in the R1-8 RUPD zoning district. 
 
8. 
The proposed pergola will be attached to the residence,.  If it were detached it would be 
considered a detached accessory structure, which may encroach into the required side yard at a 
minimum 3’ side setback (MCZO Article 1106.2). 
 
Excerpt from Site Plan

Page 3 of 7 
 
Site Analysis: 
 
9. 
The subject site is an unorthodox shape with a concave frontage that make the lot narrow to the 
rear and has an area of approximately 11,832 sq. ft. It is within the R1-8 RUPD zoning district in 
the Arroyo Norte – Units 5, 6, & 7 subdivision. The northern portion of the site is developed with a 
2,355 sq. foot. single-family residence which was built in 2015 under an approved building permit, 
B20150859. 
 
10. 
The site is relatively flat, there does not appear to be any physical barriers to development, such 
as the existence of flood zones or hillside. As proposed the attached pergola will encroach into 
the required east side yard.  This structure will serve as shade for a proposed BBQ area.  
 
11. 
The context aerial shows surrounding properties with the same or similar shaped lots within the 
subdivision. The subject sites lot shape is not a peculiar condition to the zoning district, the 
surrounding properties in the neighborhood have been developed under the R1-8 RUPD 
development standards without a need for a variance. 
 
Context Aerial

Page 4 of 7 
 
 
Site Aerial Photo  
 
 
 
 
Zoning District Map

Page 5 of 7 
 
Proposed Pergola 
 
 
 
Zoning District Standards: 
 
12. 
The following table is included to illustrate and contrast the standards for the underlying zoning 
district with those proposed by the owner: 
 
 
Standard 
 
R1-8 RUPD 
Zoning District 
Proposed with 
Variance 
Min. Side Yard Setback (East Property Line) / Principal 
building envelope  
7-feet 
4-feet  
 
  
 
State Statute / County Zoning Ordinance Tests - ARS § 11-816.B.2 and MCZO Article 303.2.2 states the 
Board of Adjustment may, “Allow a variance from the terms of the ordinance if, owing to peculiar 
conditions, a strict interpretation would work an unnecessary hardship and if in granting the variance the 
general intent and purposes of the zoning ordinance will be preserved.”  
 
13. 
Statutory Test -1 Does the applicant’s property contain any peculiar conditions – Discuss and 
explain what is/are the peculiar conditions facing the property and include reference to the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulations or Development Standards to be varied.   
 
“The variance request is based on a combination of practical limitations and unique property 
conditions, including the narrowness and shape of the lot. Granting the variance would allow for 
the installation of a pergola in a way that is consistent with the overall intent of the zoning 
regulations, while not imposing undue hardship on the property, the neighborhood, or the 
environment. The variance would allow for better use of the property without negatively impacting 
neighboring properties or the overall character of the community.” 
 
14. 
Statutory Test 2 – Does applying the requirements of the Ordinance to the applicant’s property 
create an Unnecessary Hardship – Explain how the peculiar condition identified in #1 causes an  
unnecessary hardship to the property when the requirements of the Maricopa County Zoning 
Ordinance are applied.  Explain how the that the peculiar condition of the property came to be and 
whether the condition was created by the applicant or someone in the property’s line of title.

Page 6 of 7 
 
Explain the proposed use of the property with the variance request. Identify and explain all 
peculiar conditions on your property in regard to the following areas: slope, narrowness, 
shallowness, irregular shape, location, washes, vegetation, and easements, etc. Explain how 
enforcement of the Zoning Regulations or Development Standards would impose a hardship on 
the property. 
 
“The peculiar conditions on the property create an unnecessary hardship by limiting the ability to 
utilize the land for a practical and beneficial structure such as a pergola. Strict enforcement of the 
7-foot side yard setback would not allow for reasonable use of the property and would require a 
shift to impractical locations on the property, and the unnecessary destruction of privacy features. 
These conditions were not self-created but were part of the original property layout when acquired. 
Therefore, granting the variance would allow the property to be used in a manner consistent with 
the zoning ordinance’s intent while respecting the unique characteristics of the land.” 
 
15. 
Statutory Test 3 – General Intent and Purpose of the Zoning Ordinance – Discuss the purpose 
of the zoning requirement from which the variance is being sought. Then, discuss and explain 
how, provided statutory tests #1 and #2 are satisfied, the granting of the requested variance 
would preserve the general intent and purpose of the Zoning Ordinance. 
 
“Granting the requested variance would not undermine the general intent and purpose of the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. The pergola is well-designed, low-impact structure that will 
complement the existing home and enhance the property’s value, aesthetics, and functionality 
without negatively affecting the surrounding community. It will not create any adverse impacts on 
privacy, views, safety, or the character of the neighborhood, and it aligns with the overarching goals 
of the zoning regulations: ensuring the reasonable use of property while maintaining the general 
residential integrity of the area. By allowing the variance, the property owner will be able to utilize 
the land more effectively while maintaining the community’s character and the neighborhoods 
overall quality of life. The variance would ensure that the property is used in a way that benefits 
both the owner and the larger community, without conflicting with the zoning ordinance’s intent. “ 
 
Findings:  
 
16. 
The applicant has the burden of proving to the Board that, in accordance with the standard set 
forth in ARS §11-816.B.2 and MCZO, Art. 303.2.2, the property requires a variance. To grant the 
relief, the applicant must prove, and the Board must find, that there exists a physical condition of 
the applicant’s property that is peculiar and not common to the area or the universe of the zoning 
district. Also, any such peculiarity must not have been created either by the applicant or anyone 
in the chain of title. If the Board determines that there is no such peculiar physical condition, its 
inquiry stops, and the application must be denied. 
 
If the Board finds that there is a peculiar physical condition of the applicant’s property which is 
not self-imposed, then the applicant must prove, and the Board must find, that strictly applying 
the requirements of the zoning ordinance causes an unnecessary hardship such that there is no 
viable use of the property without the variance and reasonable development of the property is 
prevented.  
 
If the Board finds that there exists a peculiar physical condition of the property which is not self-
imposed, and that applying the requirements of the zoning ordinance to the property, because of 
the peculiar physical condition, an unnecessary hardship exists, the applicant must prove, and the 
Board must find, that the granting of the variance will preserve the general intent and purpose of 
the zoning ordinance.

Page 7 of 7 
 
In order to approve the variance the Board must make findings and articulate them in motion 
memorializing the above.   
 
17. 
Based upon what the applicant has submitted and the staff analysis in this report, staff offers the 
following positive and/or negative observations the Board may consider in its findings: 
 
• 
The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the general intent and purpose of the MCZO will 
be preserved with the variance, the pergola may be developed in multiple ways without a need 
for a variance. If structurally detached the pergola could be erected in generally the same 
location. 
 
• 
The applicant has failed to demonstrate that the strict application of the MCZO to the property 
has caused undue to physical hardship that precents the reasonable development of the 
property. In fact, the property is already developed with a single-family residence. 
 
• 
The site is an irregular polygon shape with a concave frontage with a narrow rear, however it 
has not been demonstrated that this conditions is peculiar within the universe of the R1-8 
RUPD zoning district. Staff is unable to identify a peculiar condition of the property that would 
prohibit reasonable development of detached accessory structures.  Staff notes the pergola 
can be redesigned so that it is detached or remain attached but reduced to fit within the 
principal building envelope.  
 
 
18. 
And further, if the Board finds the applicant has satisfied the statutory test, and has stated its 
findings on the record, the grant of this variance will memorialize the following: 
 
a) 
Variance approval establishes a min. 4’ side yard setback, from the east lot line, for APN 
202-23-275.  
 
 
Presented by: 
Paola Jaramillo, Planner 
Reviewed by: 
Darren V. Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager  
 
Attachments: 
Case Map (1 page) 
 
Application / Supplemental Questionnaire (3 pages) 
 
Site Plan (1 page) 
 
Engineering Comments (1 page)

/
Maricopa County Planning & Development - Phoenix, AZ
3
Gross Acres: 1 approx.
Generated January 21, 2025 10:53 AM
BA240035
Application Name:
Legal Description
Boynton Residence Pergola
Applicant
Case Address
6N 2E 10
Nathan Banghart
3745 W ABRAMS DR
Applicant Phone/Email
Parcel Primary:202-23-275
6235821300
nate@straightlinelandscape.com
NEW RIVER, AZ 85087
Map scale 1:372
Supervisor District No.
Requesting variance for a patio extension / attached pergola that exceeds the side yard building setback
due to the abnormal shape of the lot.

Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
P: 602.506.3301 
Residential Variance Application Packet 
12/2/24 
 
 
 
RESIDENTIAL VARIANCE SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE
ARS §11-816 B.2 
The Board of Adjustment may allow a variance from the terms of the ordinance when, owing to peculiar 
conditions, a strict interpretation would work an unnecessary hardship, if in granting such variance the 
general intent and purposes of the zoning ordinance will be preserved. 
1.
Please discuss and explain what is/are the peculiar condition(s) facing the property and include reference to the
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulation(s) or Development Standard(s) to be varied.  Explain the proposed 
use of the property with the variance request. Identify and explain all peculiar conditions on your property in regard
to the following areas: slope, narrowness, shallowness, irregular shape, location, washes, vegetation, and
easements, etc. Explain how enforcement of the Zoning Regulation(s) or Development Standard(s) would impose
a hardship on the property.
2.
Please explain the unnecessary hardship the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance creates because of a peculiar
condition/the peculiar conditions on site. Please discuss and explain that the peculiar condition of the property is
not self-created in the line of title.
The variance request is based on a combination of practical limitations and unique property conditions, including the narrowness and 
shape of the lot. Granting the variance would allow for the installation of a pergola in a way that is consistent with the overall intent of the 
zoning regulations, while not imposing undue hardship on the property, the neighborhood, or the environment. The variance would allow 
for better use of the property without negatively impacting neighboring properties or the overall character of the community.
The peculiar conditions on the property create an unnecessary hardship by limiting the ability to utilize the land for a practical and 
beneficial structure such as a pergola. Strict enforcement of the 7-foot side yard setback would not allow for reasonable use of the 
property and would require a shift to impractical locations on the property, and the unnecessary destruction of privacy features. These 
conditions were not self-created but were part of the original property layout when acquired. Therefore, granting the variance will allow the 
property to be used in a manner consistent with the zoning ordinance's intent while respecting the unique characteristics of the land.

Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
P: 602.506.3301 
 
 
 
3.
Please discuss and explain how the granting of the requested variance would not cause a negative impact on
the general intent and purpose of the Zoning Ordinance.
*Additional sheets may be attached.
** DO NOT USE THIS FORM IF YOU ARE SUBMITTING AN INTERPRETATION 
Residential Variance Application Packet 
6/17/24 
Granting the requested variance would not undermine the general intent and purpose of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. The 
pergola is a well-designed, low-impact structure that will complement the existing home and enhance the property’s value, 
aesthetics, and functionality without negatively affecting the surrounding community. It will not create any adverse impacts on privacy, 
views, safety, or the character of the neighborhood, and it aligns with the overarching goals of the zoning regulations: ensuring the 
reasonable use of property while maintaining the general residential integrity of the area.
By allowing the variance, the property owner will be able to utilize the land more effectively while maintaining the community's 
character and the neighborhood's overall quality of life. The variance would ensure that the property is used in a way that benefits both 
the owner and the larger community, without conflicting with the zoning ordinance's intent.

(G)
(E)
BOYNTON RESIDENCE
LOT 31
3745 W ABRAMS DR
NEW RIVER, AZ 85087
PARCEL # : 202-23-275
MCR # : 112923
-12"
-6"
EXISTING POOL
10'
4'
11'-6"
18"
24'
21'
10'
TRAVERTINE
TRAVERTINE
PROPOSED
PERGOLA
SOD & SPRINKLERS
PROPOSED
PERGOLA
20' BSL
8' PUE
7' BSL
7' BSL
25' BSL
25' R/W
51.56'
R=224.99'      L=114.51'
136.17'
138.69'
4'
30'
29'-6"
12'
6'-6"
29'-2"
32'-6"
25'-2"
PROPERTY LINE
ADJACENT RESIDENTIAL
PARCEL #202-23-274
ADJACENT RESIDENTIAL
PARCEL #202-23-276
EXISTING
COVERED PATIO
19'-4"
8'-6"
5'-3"
4'-7"
5'-5"
21'-10"
12'-6"
30'-6"
W ABRAMS DR
PAVERS
2012-1016830
2012-1016830
DRIVEWAY
25'
45'
45'
24'
2'
5'-6"
55'
30'
10'-6"
10'-6"
4'
24'
40'-6"
25'
GARAGE
PROPOSED
BBQ
NEW PERGOLA: 450 SQ.FT. - ATTACHED @ HOUSE W/ LATTICE ROOF
LOT COVERAGE
ATTACHED AT EAVE HEIGHT - COLOR TO MATCH HOUSE
PERGOLA & LOT INFORMATION
 NEW PERGOLA
EX. FOOTPRINT - 2355 SQ.FT.
NEW TOTAL FOOTPRINT -  2805 SQ.FT.
NEW COVERAGE -  23.7%
LOT SIZE -  11,832 SQ.FT.
NEW PERGOLA - 450 SQ.FT.
0'
20'
10'
SCALE: 1" = 20'
10.18.2024
DREAM
STRAIGHT LINE LANDSCAPE
DESIGN
CONSTRUCT
ENJOY

Page 1 of 1
Revised 3/1/23
Alba L. Holloway
Engineering Associate
Planning & Development
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170
Phoenix, Arizona 85008
Phone: (602) 372-0850
Fax: (602)506-3282
www.maricopa.gov/planning
Email address:
alba.holloway@maricopa.gov
Planning & Development
Engineering Plan Review
Date:  
January 8, 2025
Memo To:
Darren Gerard, Planning Manager, Planning & Development
Attn:
Paola Jaramillo Quintero, Planner, Planning and Development
From:
Alba L. Holloway, Engineering Associate
Planning & Development Department
cc:
Bob Fedorka, P.E., Engineering Manager, Planning and Development
Subject:
BA240035    Residential Variance /  
East Side Yard Setback Reduction. 
Address:
3745 W Abrams Drive New River AZ 85087
APN(s):
202-23-275
PND Engineering has no comments on the variance request.
PND Flood Control District has no comments on the variance request. No flood zones on 
lot. 
PND MCDOT has no comments on the variance request.
Other Maricopa County Agencies must review and recommend approval of this project.  
Please contact me if you have any questions or require clarification of these comments.