04. BA240037 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:   
 
 
BA240037 – Bratton Property  
 
Hearing Date:  
 
February 13, 2025 
 
Supervisor District: 
 
2 
____________________________________________________________________________________________ 
 
Applicant:  
Sonya Maynes, Maynes Construction 
 
Property Owner: 
Sam Bratton III 
 
Request: 
Variance to the development standard of the Maricopa County Zoning 
Ordinance to permit: 
 
1) 
Proposed front (south) setback of 20’ where 40’ is the minimum 
permitted per MCZO Article 601.4.1.a 
 
Site Location: 
APN 219-21-007E @ 8202 E. Redberry St., Hawes Rd. and McDowell Rd., 
in the Mesa area 
 
Site Size: 
 
 
35,000 sq. ft.  
 
Current Use / Zoning: 
Vacant / R1 - 35 
 
Open Violation: 
N/A 
 
Background: 
 
1. 
January 24, 2005: The subject property was created via unregulated land division of parent parcel 
APN 219-21-007B as per MCR 2005-0085650. 
 
2. 
August 1, 2024: The subject property was conveyed to the current property owner as per recorded 
deed MCR 20240411718. 
 
Existing On-Site and Surrounding Zoning/Land Use: 
 
3. 
On-site: 
R1-35 / Vacant 
 
North:  
R1-35 / Single-family residence 
South:  
Redberry St. then R1-35 / Single-family residence  
East: 
 
R1-35 / Single-family residence 
West:  
RS-35 (City of Mesa) / Vacant

Page 2 of 10 
 
Variance Request: 
 
4. 
The applicant proposes to reduce the front yard setback from 40’ to 20’ along the southern lot 
line.  The property owner plans to construct a single-family residence on the property.  Staff notes 
that while a detailed site plan and residential elevations were provided with variance submittal, 
there are no active building permits for development.  The applicant posits that the setback 
reduction is needed due to limitations on placement, size, and design of the septic system due to 
soil types present on the property, proximity to existing wells, an unusually high water table, and 
location of a small wash in the southern portion of the site. 
 
Excerpt from proposed site plan

Page 3 of 10 
 
 
 
Photograph of subject site, taken from south facing north 
 
 
 
Site Analysis: 
 
5. 
The subject property is of a typical rectangular shape common of properties in the area and meets 
zoning district minimum lot area and width requirements.  The property does contain a small 
wash on the southern portion of the property; however, it appears to be mostly contained within 
the required front yard setback of the property.  Additionally, the site plan indicates the wash will 
be channelized and narrowed, presumably lessening any impact to building placement on site, as 
the setback variance will bring the proposed residence closer to the wash.

Page 4 of 10 
 
Floor Plan with ADUs Highlighted 
 
 
 
6. 
Analysis of the site plan and floor plan submitted by the applicant indicate there are two 
accessory dwelling units proposed for the site, one attached to the primary residence, and one 
included in a detached accessory structure.  Staff notes that only one ADU will be permitted.  The 
floor plan must be modified for construction permitting.  This is note-worthy for a couple reasons.  
First, the size of the septic tank and leach field may be influenced by the numerous plumbing 
fixtures included in the current floor plan due to several restrooms, four total kitchens (one in the 
primary residence, one in each ADU, and one outdoor kitchen), and overall size of the residence.  
A reduction in fixtures may allow for a smaller septic system negating the need for the reduction 
in setback.  Second, as building permits have yet to be submitted the applicant is urged to explore 
different home designs, building placements, and site layouts that meet the R1-35 zoning district 
standards.

Page 5 of 10 
 
Aerial photo of subject site  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aerial image & surrounding environs

Page 6 of 10 
 
 
Zoning District map  
 
 
 
Zoning District Standards: 
 
7. 
The following table is included to illustrate and contrast the standards for the underlying zoning 
district with those proposed by the owner (Note: changes to proposed standards are indicated in 
bold). 
 
 
 
 
Standard 
 
R1-35 
Zoning 
District 
Proposed with 
Variance 
Min. Front Yard Setback (residence to south property line)  
40-feet 
20-feet 
Min. Rear Yard Setback (residence to north property line) 
40-feet 
n/a 
Min. Side Yard Setback (residence to west property line) 
20-feet 
n/a 
Min. Street Side Setback (residence to western edge of 
access easement along east property line) 
20-feet 
n/a 
Maximum Height  
30-feet 
n/a 
Minimum Lot Area 
35,000-sq. ft. 
35,000-sq. ft. 
Minimum Lot Width 
145-feet 
165-feet 
Lot Coverage 
30% 
n/a 
 
Note: Standards indicated in bold do not meet base zoning standards 
 
  
 
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

Page 7 of 10 
 
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.”  
 
8. 
Statutory Test -1 Does the applicant’s property contain any peculiar condition– 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 property in question, intended for the construction of a residential home, faces several 
peculiar conditions that necessitate a variance from the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance 
Regulations and Development Standards. Firstly, a wash enters from the east, travels 20 feet wide 
along the south side and exits at the southeast side of the property. According to zoning 
regulations, the septic system must be placed at least 25 feet from the wash. Secondly, there is a 
well located on the neighboring property to the north, within 5 feet of the property line, which 
requires the septic system to be situated at least 100 feet away. Thirdly, the soil in this area has a 
low absorption rate ranging from 6-10, necessitating a larger leach field area. Additionally, the water 
table in the area is at 10 feet below the surface, eliminating the option to utilize a seepage pit. 
 
These conditions present significant challenges for the placement of the septic system. The 
constraints imposed by the wash and the neighboring well severely limit the available space for the 
septic system. The larger leach field required due to the soil's absorption rate further complicates 
the placement within the remaining buildable area. The high-water table precludes the use of a 
seepage pit, adding to the complexity of meeting regulatory requirements for waste management 
on the property. 
 
The proposed use of the property is to construct a residential home. To achieve this, it is necessary 
to relocate the buildable area forward to accommodate the septic system and the required leach 
field while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. This forward placement is 
essential due to the natural constraints and the specific requirements for septic system placement. 
 
Strict enforcement of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulations without a variance would 
impose a significant hardship on the property. The combination of the wash, the proximity of the 
neighboring well, the soil absorption rate, and the high water table create a unique set of challenges 
that cannot be addressed within the standard setback requirements. These conditions are not self 
created but inherent to the site, and they significantly reduce the buildable area, making it 
impossible to comply with the zoning regulations without adjustment. 
 
In conclusion, the peculiar conditions of the property, including the wash, the neighboring well, the 
soil absorption rate, and the high water table, necessitate a variance to allow for reasonable and 
safe development. Granting the variance will enable the construction of a residential home while 
maintaining compliance with health and safety standards and upholding the general intent and 
purpose of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. “ 
 
9. 
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. 
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.

Page 8 of 10 
 
“The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance creates an unnecessary hardship for this property due to 
several peculiar conditions that are inherent to the site and not self-created. These conditions 
include a wash that enters from the east, travels 20 feet wide along the south side, and exits at the 
southeast side of the property, necessitating that the septic system be placed at least 25 feet away. 
Additionally, there is a well on the neighboring property to the north, within 5 feet of the property 
line, requiring the septic system to be situated at least 100 feet away. Furthermore, the soil in this 
area has a low absorption rate ranging from 6-10, necessitating a larger leach field. The water table 
is also at 10 feet below the surface, precluding the use of a seepage pit. 
These conditions significantly limit the usable area of the property, affecting where structures and 
utilities can be placed. The constraints imposed by the wash and the neighboring well severely 
restrict the available space for the septic system. The larger leach field required due to the soil's 
absorption rate and the high water table adds to the complexity of meeting regulatory requirements 
for waste management. 
 
These peculiar conditions were not created by the property owner or any previous owners in the 
line of title; they are natural and pre-existing. The wash, the location of the well, the soil absorption 
rate, and the water table are all inherent characteristics of the site. Consequently, the property 
owner faces a unique set of challenges that significantly reduce the buildable area and make it 
impossible to comply with the standard setback requirements and other zoning regulations without 
a variance. 
 
Enforcing the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulations without considering these peculiar 
conditions would impose an unnecessary hardship on the property. The combination of the wash, 
the proximity of the neighboring well, the soil absorption rate, and the high water table create a 
situation where the standard regulations cannot be reasonably applied. These natural constraints 
are not the result of any actions taken by the property owner or previous owners but are inherent to 
the land itself. 
 
In conclusion, the peculiar conditions of the property, including the wash, the neighboring well, the 
soil absorption rate, and the high water table, necessitate a variance to allow for reasonable and 
safe development. The variance is essential to make reasonable use of the property and to 
construct a residential home while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The 
conditions creating the hardship are not self-created but are inherent to the site, justifying the need 
for the requested variance.” 
 
10. 
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 cause a negative impact on the general intent and 
purpose of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. The primary aim of the Zoning Ordinance is to 
ensure orderly development, protect public health and safety, and preserve the quality of life in the 
community. The variance sought for this property aligns with these objectives for several reasons. 
Firstly, the variance is necessitated by unique, pre-existing natural conditions, specifically the 
presence of a wash and a neighboring well, which significantly constrain the buildable area of the 
property. These conditions are not self-created, and the variance is essential to make reasonable 
use of the property. The forward placement of the property to accommodate the septic system 
ensures that this essential feature can be installed in compliance with health and safety standards. 
By situating the septic system and reserve area in the only viable location, we are adhering to the 
strict health regulations while also ensuring the system's effective operation, which ultimately 
safeguards public health.

Page 9 of 10 
 
Secondly, granting the variance would allow the property to be developed in a manner consistent 
with the surrounding area. The proposed adjustments do not involve any radical changes to the 
property’s layout or use that would be out of character with neighboring properties. By 
accommodating the septic system, the property would maintain its residential function, 
contributing to the continuity and stability of the neighborhood. This ensures that the development 
is in harmony with the existing residential environment, thus supporting the orderly development 
goal of the Zoning Ordinance. 
 
Furthermore, the variance would not compromise public health, safety, or welfare. On the contrary, 
it ensures that the septic system and reserve area are properly located and functioning, which is 
critical for maintaining sanitary conditions. The forward placement of the property does not 
encroach on public spaces or rights-of-way, nor does it impact neighboring properties negatively. 
The wash and well create natural barriers that define the property’s usable space, and the variance 
respects these natural features, ensuring that the development is both safe and environmentally 
conscious. 
 
Lastly, the variance would uphold the intent of the Zoning Ordinance by enabling the property to be 
used in a practical and beneficial way while respecting the unique natural constraints present. It 
strikes a balance between adhering to the general zoning regulations and accommodating the 
specific needs dictated by the property's peculiar conditions. The variance will allow us to build our 
forever home in a manner that is respectful of the environment and consistent with community 
standards, without undermining the overarching goals of the Ordinance. 
 
In conclusion, granting the requested variance supports the general intent and purpose of the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance by facilitating reasonable and safe development, maintaining 
the character of the neighborhood, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The 
natural constraints of the property necessitate the variance, and its approval would not only 
respect these unique conditions but also enhance the quality of life for our family and contribute 
positively to the community. We kindly request your support in granting this variance to build our 
family’s forever home while honoring the spirit and objectives of the Zoning Ordinance.” 
 
Findings:  
 
11. 
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 Article 303.2.2, the property requires a variance. To grant the 
relief, the applicant must prove, and the Board must find and identify, 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 identifies a peculiar physical condition of the applicant’s property which is not self-
imposed, then the applicant must prove, and the Board must find and identify, an unnecessary 
hardship imposed upon the property due to the strict application of the requirements of the zoning 
ordinance which the applicant wishes to have varied such that there is no viable use of the 
property without the variance.  
 
If the Board identifies a peculiar physical condition of the property which is not self-imposed, and 
that in 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 and identify, how the granting of the variance will preserve the general intent and purpose of 
the zoning ordinance.

Page 10 of 10 
 
In order to approve the variance the Board must make findings and articulate them in motion 
memorializing the above.   
 
12. 
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: 
 
• 
After reviewing the submission, staff is unable to identify a peculiar condition facing the 
property.  While there is a small wash present on the southern side of the property, it does 
not impact the ability for a residence to be placed within the lot’s principal building 
envelope, as demonstrated by the fact that the requested variance will allow the primary 
residence to be placed closer to the wash itself. 
• 
The proposed site plan and associated floor plan may not meet zoning requirements even 
if the variance is granted due to what appears to be multiple ADUs.  A modified project is 
likely to reduce or eliminate the need for a variance. 
• 
Staff notes that there are no active building permits on the subject property.  If the variance 
is granted and the current proposed plans do not come to fruition the reduced setback 
would remain in place in perpetuity.  This could lead to a different home design that would 
reasonably fit within the principle building envelope being approved 20’ from the southern 
lot line. 
• 
Staff cannot identify a peculiar condition facing the property that when presented with the 
ordinance standard creates an undue physical hardship, not self-created in the line of title, 
that will prevent reasonable development of the property. 
 
13. 
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 20’ (south) setback line for APN 219-21-007E.  
 
 
Presented by: 
Joseph Mueller, Planner 
Reviewed by: 
Darren V. Gérard, AICP, Planning Manager  
 
Attachments: 
Case Map (1 page) 
 
Application / Supplemental Questionnaire (6 pages) 
 
Site Plan (1 page) 
 
Email to applicant informing of ADU requirements (1 page)

/
Maricopa County Planning & Development - Phoenix, AZ
2
Gross Acres: 1 approx.
Generated January 21, 2025 10:30 AM
BA240037
Application Name:
Legal Description
Bratton Residence
Applicant
Case Address
2N 7E 32
Sonya Maynes
8202 E REDBERRY
Applicant Phone/Email
Parcel Primary:219-21-007E
(623) 302-1526
Sonya@maynesconstruction.com
MESA, AZ 85207
Map scale 1:528
Supervisor District No.
Front Setback Reduction from 40' to 20' to make room for a septic system.

Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
P: 602.506.3301 
Variance Application 
Packet 12/1/23 
VARIANCE / INTERPRETATION  
APPLICATION 
ALL FEES ARE DUE AT TIME OF APPLICATION AND ARE NON-REFUNDABLE 
 
Is this Design Build? 
 Yes 
 No 
Is this Residential? 
 Yes 
 No 
Please select the type of Board of Adjustment application from the checkboxes below. 
 Residential Variance 
 Non-residential Variance 
 Interpretation 
 BA Blanket Variance 
Is this subject property within an area of 15% or greater hillside slopes? Yes 
  No  
REQUEST 
Description of Request: 
Existing Zoning District and Use of Property: 
Related Case Number(s): 
PROPERTY INFORMATION 
Address (if known): 
General Location (include nearest city/town): 
Size in Acres: 
Square Feet: 
Legal Description: 
Section: 
Township: 
Range: 
Assessor’s Parcel Number(s): 
Subdivision Name (if applicable): 
APPLICANT INFORMATION 
Name: 
Contact: 
Address: 
City: 
State: 
Zip: 
Phone #: 
Fax #: 
E-mail Address: 
PROPERTY OWNER INFORMATION 
Name: 
Contact: 
Address: 
City: 
State: 
Zip: 
Phone #: 
Fax #: 
E-mail Address: 
PROPERTY OWNER AND APPLICANT AUTHORIZATION 
I (property owner) 
 
authorize (applicant’s name) 
to file this application on all matters relating to this request with Maricopa County. By signing this form as the property owner I hereby agree to 
abide by any and all conditions that may be assigned by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors, Maricopa County Planning and Zoning 
Commission, or Maricopa County Planning and Development Department staff as applicable, as part of any approval of this request, including 
conditions, development agreements, and/or any other requirement that may encumber or otherwise affect the use of my property. 
PROPOSITION 207 WAIVER - Signature required
The property owner acknowledges that the approval being sought by this application may cause a reduction in the existing rights to use, 
divide, sell or possess the private property that is the subject of this application.  The property owner further acknowledges that it is the 
property owner who has requested the action sought by the filing of this application.  Therefore, with full knowledge of all rights granted to 
the property owner pursuant to A.R.S.§1§12-1132 through 1138, the property owner does hereby waive any and all claims for diminution in 
value of the property with regard to any action taken by Maricopa County as result of the filing of this application. 
Property Owner Signature: 
 
Date: 
INSPECTIONS 
By submitting this application, I am inviting County staff to conduct all site inspections they deem necessary. 
VERIFICATION OF APPLICATION INFORMATION  - Signature required
I certify that the statements in this application and support material are true. Any approvals or permits granted by Maricopa County in reliance 
upon the truthfulness of these statements may be revoked or rescinded.  
Owner or Authorized Agent Signature: 
 
Date: 
ARS § 1605 TIMEFRAME EXTENSION 
I authorize a 50% timeframe extension for the review of my application as adopted by the Board of Supervisors per ARS § 1605 and as 
amended. 
 
Property Owner Signature: _________________________________________________________   Date: 
  ______________________________ 
I
Reduce front setback from 40' to 20'
8202 E Redberry Street
Hawes/Mcdowell in Mesa, Arizona
1
35,000
32
2N
7E
219-21-007-E
Sonya Maynes
8202 E Redberry
Mesa
Arizona
85207
(623) 302-1526
sonya@maynesconstruction.com
Sam C Bratton III
8202 E Redberry 
Mesa
Arizona
85207
(480) 205-8867
Sam C Bratton III
Sonya Maynes
12/17/2024
R-35 Vacant Land
12/17/2024

Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
P: 602.506.3301 
Variance Application 
Packet 12/1/23 
 
 
 
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.
See attached. 
See Attached

Planning & Development Department 
301 W. Jefferson St., Suite 170 Phoenix, Arizona 85003 
P: 602.506.3301 
Variance Application 
Packet 12/1/23 
 
 
 
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 
See Attached.

1) The property in question, intended for the construction of a residential home, faces several 
peculiar conditions that necessitate a variance from the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance 
Regulations and Development Standards. Firstly, a wash enters from the east, travels 20 feet wide 
along the south side, and exits at the southeast side of the property. According to zoning 
regulations, the septic system must be placed at least 25 feet from the wash. Secondly, there is a 
well located on the neighboring property to the north, within 5 feet of the property line, which 
requires the septic system to be situated at least 100 feet away. Thirdly, the soil in this area has a 
low absorption rate ranging from 6-10, necessitating a larger leach field area. Additionally, the water 
table in the area is at 10 feet below the surface, eliminating the option to utilize a seepage pit. 
These conditions present significant challenges for the placement of the septic system. The 
constraints imposed by the wash and the neighboring well severely limit the available space for the 
septic system. The larger leach field required due to the soil's absorption rate further complicates 
the placement within the remaining buildable area. The high water table precludes the use of a 
seepage pit, adding to the complexity of meeting regulatory requirements for waste management 
on the property. 
The proposed use of the property is to construct a residential home. To achieve this, it is necessary 
to relocate the buildable area forward to accommodate the septic system and the required leach 
field while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. This forward placement is 
essential due to the natural constraints and the specific requirements for septic system placement. 
Strict enforcement of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulations without a variance would 
impose a significant hardship on the property. The combination of the wash, the proximity of the 
neighboring well, the soil absorption rate, and the high water table create a unique set of challenges 
that cannot be addressed within the standard setback requirements. These conditions are not self-
created but inherent to the site, and they significantly reduce the buildable area, making it 
impossible to comply with the zoning regulations without adjustment. 
In conclusion, the peculiar conditions of the property, including the wash, the neighboring well, the 
soil absorption rate, and the high water table, necessitate a variance to allow for reasonable and 
safe development. Granting the variance will enable the construction of a residential home while 
maintaining compliance with health and safety standards and upholding the general intent and 
purpose of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. 
 
2) The Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance creates an unnecessary hardship for this property due to 
several peculiar conditions that are inherent to the site and not self-created. These conditions 
include a wash that enters from the east, travels 20 feet wide along the south side, and exits at the 
southeast side of the property, necessitating that the septic system be placed at least 25 feet away. 
Additionally, there is a well on the neighboring property to the north, within 5 feet of the property 
line, requiring the septic system to be situated at least 100 feet away. Furthermore, the soil in this 
area has a low absorption rate ranging from 6-10, necessitating a larger leach field. The water table 
is also at 10 feet below the surface, precluding the use of a seepage pit.

These conditions significantly limit the usable area of the property, affecting where structures and 
utilities can be placed. The constraints imposed by the wash and the neighboring well severely 
restrict the available space for the septic system. The larger leach field required due to the soil's 
absorption rate and the high water table adds to the complexity of meeting regulatory requirements 
for waste management. 
These peculiar conditions were not created by the property owner or any previous owners in the line 
of title; they are natural and pre-existing. The wash, the location of the well, the soil absorption rate, 
and the water table are all inherent characteristics of the site. Consequently, the property owner 
faces a unique set of challenges that significantly reduce the buildable area and make it impossible 
to comply with the standard setback requirements and other zoning regulations without a variance. 
Enforcing the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance Regulations without considering these peculiar 
conditions would impose an unnecessary hardship on the property. The combination of the wash, 
the proximity of the neighboring well, the soil absorption rate, and the high water table create a 
situation where the standard regulations cannot be reasonably applied. These natural constraints 
are not the result of any actions taken by the property owner or previous owners but are inherent to 
the land itself. 
In conclusion, the peculiar conditions of the property, including the wash, the neighboring well, the 
soil absorption rate, and the high water table, necessitate a variance to allow for reasonable and 
safe development. The variance is essential to make reasonable use of the property and to 
construct a residential home while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The 
conditions creating the hardship are not self-created but are inherent to the site, justifying the need 
for the requested variance. 
 
3) Granting the requested variance would not cause a negative impact on the general intent and 
purpose of the Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance. The primary aim of the Zoning Ordinance is to 
ensure orderly development, protect public health and safety, and preserve the quality of life in the 
community. The variance sought for this property aligns with these objectives for several reasons. 
Firstly, the variance is necessitated by unique, pre-existing natural conditions, specifically the 
presence of a wash and a neighboring well, which significantly constrain the buildable area of the 
property. These conditions are not self-created, and the variance is essential to make reasonable 
use of the property. The forward placement of the property to accommodate the septic system 
ensures that this essential feature can be installed in compliance with health and safety standards. 
By situating the septic system and reserve area in the only viable location, we are adhering to the 
strict health regulations while also ensuring the system's effective operation, which ultimately 
safeguards public health. 
Secondly, granting the variance would allow the property to be developed in a manner consistent 
with the surrounding area. The proposed adjustments do not involve any radical changes to the 
property’s layout or use that would be out of character with neighboring properties. By 
accommodating the septic system, the property would maintain its residential function, 
contributing to the continuity and stability of the neighborhood. This ensures that the development

is in harmony with the existing residential environment, thus supporting the orderly development 
goal of the Zoning Ordinance. 
Furthermore, the variance would not compromise public health, safety, or welfare. On the contrary, 
it ensures that the septic system and reserve area are properly located and functioning, which is 
critical for maintaining sanitary conditions. The forward placement of the property does not 
encroach on public spaces or rights-of-way, nor does it impact neighboring properties negatively. 
The wash and well create natural barriers that define the property’s usable space, and the variance 
respects these natural features, ensuring that the development is both safe and environmentally 
conscious. 
Lastly, the variance would uphold the intent of the Zoning Ordinance by enabling the property to be 
used in a practical and beneficial way while respecting the unique natural constraints present. It 
strikes a balance between adhering to the general zoning regulations and accommodating the 
specific needs dictated by the property's peculiar conditions. The variance will allow us to build our 
forever home in a manner that is respectful of the environment and consistent with community 
standards, without undermining the overarching goals of the Ordinance. 
In conclusion, granting the requested variance supports the general intent and purpose of the 
Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance by facilitating reasonable and safe development, maintaining 
the character of the neighborhood, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The 
natural constraints of the property necessitate the variance, and its approval would not only 
respect these unique conditions but also enhance the quality of life for our family and contribute 
positively to the community. We kindly request your support in granting this variance to build our 
family’s forever home while honoring the spirit and objectives of the Zoning Ordinance.

1
Joseph Mueller (PND)
From:
Joseph Mueller (PND)
Sent:
Thursday, January 2, 2025 12:53 PM
To:
Sonya Maynes
Subject:
BA240037 - Bratton Property
Good aŌernoon Sonya, 
 
I have reviewed the case submiƩal, and it appears to be set for the February 13, 2025 Board of Adjustment agenda. 
 
I do sƟll need to receive final sign off from our engineering and environmental teams however they typically do not have 
comments on variance cases.  I will inform you as soon as sign-off is received or if the other review teams need 
addiƟonal informaƟon. 
 
The staff signoff deadline is January 21st.  I will send a Ɵmeline checklist closer to that date.  County staff will place two 
noƟficaƟon signs on the property by January 31st. 
 
If you are able, could you please provide a couple more pictures of the wash on the southern porƟon of the property?  It 
would be beneficial to have them for the staff report. 
 
AddiƟonally, I wanted to make you aware that the floor planes as presented have two accessory dwelling units shown 
(the aƩached separate living quarters on the eastern porƟon of the main residence and the detached living quarters 
incorporated into the RV garage). R1-35 allows for one primary residence and one ADU (this includes aƩached or 
detached ADUs).  While this will not impact the variance process for the reduced setback the floor design will not 
receive zoning clearance as is. 
 
A variance cannot be granted to allow for mulƟple ADUs. 
 
Please let me know if you have any quesƟons. 
 
Kind regards, 
 
 
Joseph Mueller 
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT 
301 W Jefferson St Phoenix, AZ 85003
Planner 
O:   602-506-7629     
MARICOPA.GOV 
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