HomeMy WebLinkAboutPacket for HO 06-23-25BZA Info Packet Introduction
a) Introductory Memo
To: Board of Zoning Appeals
From: Raymond and Julie Rothberger, Property Owners
Date: June 10, 2025
Subject: Variance Request – Drainage Easement Encroachment for Pool Decking
Property Address: 2557 Turning Leaf Lane, Carmel, IN
Dear Members of the Board,
We are submitting this variance request for our residence at 2557 Turning Leaf Lane in Carmel,
Indiana. The request concerns a proposed in-ground swimming pool project, where a small
portion of the surrounding concrete decking is planned to extend into a platted drainage
easement. The pool structure itself remains entirely outside the easement limits. Please find
enclosed our formal request and supporting rationale. We appreciate your time and
consideration.
Sincerely,
Raymond and Julie Rothberger
b) Statement of Variance Request
We respectfully request a variance to allow a portion of our proposed concrete pool decking to
encroach approximately four (4) feet into a platted drainage easement located on our property
at 2557 Turning Leaf Lane. The applicable zoning regulation requires a minimum setback of
three (3) feet from the easement; however, site constraints necessitate a slight encroachment
beyond that limit.
c) Statement of Support
The requested encroachment is limited to a small section of the concrete pool decking and does
not involve the pool shell or any permanent structures. The primary reason for this request is
the presence of a mature tree in the rear yard that restricts optimal pool orientation. To
preserve the tree and maintain both safe access and functional space around the pool, the
decking has been designed to slightly overlap the easement in one corner by approximately four
feet. The decking is non-structural, installed at grade, and will not interfere with drainage
patterns or utilities. Approval of this request will allow us to preserve the natural landscape
while implementing a safe, code-compliant, and aesthetically appropriate pool layout without
adversely impacting neighboring properties or stormwater management.
10'
4'
4'
10
'
12' 4"14'
32
'
4'
30 6 9 12 15
Scale: 1/8" = 1 ft
31 E Main Street, Ste. 300 • Carmel, IN 46032 • Office 317-706-1706
www.armourproperty.com
Property Management, LLC
“We Manage Neighborhoods, like they’re Our Own”
March 17, 2025
Raymond Rothberger
2557 Turning Leaf Lane
Carmel, IN 46032
I am pleased to inform you the Architectural Review Committee has approved your request for
the following item(s):
Install 32’ x 14’ pool with automatic pool cover in backyard at location indicated
on drawings submitted. Landscaping to be installed as indicated on plan. Pool
mechanical system will be hidden by landscaping. The existing wood fence at the
west side of the patio will be raised by 3-4 feet and will match the current fence
design. Soil removed from the pool excavation will be used to create mounds at
the south end of the lot and new Spruce trees will be installed as a natural border
near the southern edge of the property
Please be aware of the following conditions:
• You ensure that the pool plan meets local zoning requirements, (distance from property
lines, obtaining proper permits, etc.)
• You are responsible for maintaining proper drainage in the area affected by the work.
• You are responsible for ensuring the streets are cleared of dirt/debris daily from the
project.
It is your responsibility to obtain any necessary permits and follow the guidelines
mandated by the county, city, or state and to ensure all improvements are within your
property lines and setbacks. Also, be aware that you are responsible at your expense to
move anything in the easement if a utility company needs to have access to that area.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office. Thank you for submitting your
request.
Regards,
Nancy Bates
Managing Agent
Armour Property Management, LLC
A • R • M • O • U • R
Page 10 of 12
FINDINGS OF FACT SHEET - DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS VARIANCE
CARMEL ADVISORY BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS
(Petitioner to fill out 1-3 + first two blanks)
Docket No.: _________PZ—2025-00118V______________________________________
Petitioner: ______Raymond and Julie Rothberger__________________________
1. The approval of this variance will not be injurious to the public health, safety, morals and general welfare of the
community because:
The proposed encroachment into the drainage easement is minimal, accounting for approximately 5% of the total
easement area. This portion of the patio consists solely of concrete decking and does not include any permanent structures,
fencing, or obstructions that would interfere with drainage flow, utility access, or maintenance. The design has been
reviewed to ensure that natural drainage patterns are maintained and that no adverse impact will occur to neighboring
properties or public infrastructure. Granting this variance allows for functional use of the yard while preserving all essential
aspects of public safety and utility access.
2. The use and value of the area adjacent to the property included in the variance will not be affected in a substantially
adverse manner because:
The proposed encroachment is limited to a small section of concrete pool decking and does not involve any structural
elements that would obstruct views, access, or natural drainage. The adjacent property to the south consists of a common
area with landscaping and open green space, which is not developed or used for residential purposes. The encroachment
affects approximately 5% of the easement area and has been carefully designed to avoid any disruption to the drainage
function or utility access. As such, the visual, functional, and economic character of neighboring properties will remain
unaffected.
3. The strict application of the terms of the Unified Development to the property will result in practical difficulties in the
use of the property because:
The property has a relatively shallow rear yard due to the position of the home and the required drainage easement. Strict
enforcement of the 3-foot setback from the drainage easement significantly limits the ability to install a modestly sized pool
and surrounding decking while maintaining safe circulation space and usability. The proposed layout has been designed to
minimize encroachment while still allowing for functional outdoor living. Without the variance, the use of the backyard would
be substantially restricted and inconsistent with similar improvements in the surrounding neighborhood.
DECISION
IT IS THEREFORE the decision of the Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals that Development Standards Variance Docket No.
___________________________ is granted, subject to any conditions stated in the minutes of this Board, which are
incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof.
Adopted this _______________ day of __________________________________, 20 _______.
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
HEARING OFFICER, Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals
_____________________________________________ _____________________________________________
SECRETARY, Carmel Board of Zoning Appeals
Conditions of approval of the Board, if any, are listed on the Letter of Grant.