Edina City Council — Transcript
Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Variance Request for Front Yard Setback at 82 Woodland Circle
Food Truck Study and Report Update
Future Zoning Ordinance Update and Front Yard Setback Rules
Votes (1)
Public Hearing: Variance Request for Front Yard Setback at 82 Woodland Circle
Moved by Commissioner Day [Unknown Timestamp] · Seconded by Commissioner Just [Unknown Timestamp]
The public hearing focused on a request for a variance from the average front yard setback at 82 Woodland Circle, required for constructing a larger front porch and overhang. Staff detailed the need for weather protection and the property's unique situation, where the average setback was significantly influenced by a deep-set neighboring home. Despite the proposed setback being less than the calculated average, staff recommended approval based on specific findings, including harmony with ordinance intent and the comprehensive plan. Commissioners acknowledged that this type of variance request is common, especially on curved roads, and found the proposed addition modest and beneficial. No public comments were received during the hearing.
Notable Quotes (4)
The request is actually for a 13.55 ft front yard setback variance. The requirement is for 43.6 ft. And that would be to allow for an overhang with columns at 30.1 ft. To allow for a front porch. The homeowners have indicated that visitors stand at the front door and there's no protection from rain or snow or other elements.
It's one of the more typical variance requests we get because we have this more elastic front yard setback requirement. And it's usually a surprise to some home- home owners to find out that they have to rely on their neighbors setbacks in order to do something with their house.
This is kind of a straightforward one we've seen many times. Um one specific detail is a road being on a curve. You know, we tend to apply a little more discretion in that matter because it's a little hard to tell if one house is protruding out past the other. And so, typically, we're a little more forgiving there.
I think porches are very welcoming and um appreciated in the neighborhood, and I'm sure visitors and um neighbors would appreciate this as well. And within the 30-ft standard for new development, which we allow in some other areas if it was a straight street. Um so I think that an exception here is warranted.
Ordinances & Resolutions (6)
Required for the proposed construction, with approval contingent on adherence to the submitted plans.
A condition for the approval of the variance request.
The regulatory document governing front yard setback requirements, which prompted the variance request.
A guiding document that the variance request was found to be consistent with.
A report being finalized by commissioners for future discussion and submission to city council.
A future city initiative that may revise current front yard setback regulations.