Minnetonka Planning Commission Addresses Variances, Notes Signage Withdrawal Ahead of Key Meeting
Residential expansion permits and an unauthorized tree removal case were among the items reviewed by the Planning Commission, as a controversial hotel signage request was withdrawn.
The Minnetonka Planning Commission is set to convene on September 24, 2026, to consider a series of residential development requests and variances, following a September 3 regular meeting that included discussions on several applications. Among the notable developments, Hampton Inn and Suites at 10600 Wayzata Blvd. formally withdrew its application for additional wall signage after city staff recommended denial, citing a lack of unique visibility needs for the site.
The withdrawn Hampton Inn application had sought approval for two additional wall signs at the hotel's porte-cochere. City staff had recommended against the amendment to the existing sign plan, concluding that the property did not present special circumstances warranting the additional signage. The applicant officially withdrew the request on September 24, just ahead of the scheduled commission meeting.
Our team carefully reviews each application against established city ordinances and variance standards to ensure fair and consistent application of our zoning codes, while also considering individual property unique circumstances.
Residential Projects and Variances Under Review
Among the significant items on the commission's docket is a request from 16820 Edgewood Ave. for variances related to a garage and living space addition. This application includes a notable element: the unauthorized removal of 100% of high-priority trees on the property. The applicant is seeking both tree removal and front yard setback variances, with the proposed addition resulting in a 24.97-foot front yard setback. Despite the prior unauthorized tree removal, staff analysis supports approval of the requested variances.
Staff recommendations are developed after thorough analysis, aiming to balance community development goals with individual property rights and neighborhood character.
Other Topics from This Document
Expansion permit for an addition at 11801 Bradford Road.
Request by Dean Johnson Homes for a 665 sq ft addition. Project maintains a 9.9-foot side yard setback, consistent with existing nonconforming conditions. Staff recommends approval.
Expansion permit for a second-story living space addition at 12924 Inverness Road.
NPK LLC proposes a second-story addition. Project involves removal of detached garage and breezeway, bringing the property closer to current setback compliance. Staff recommends approval.
Front yard setback variance for a front porch at 3425 Elmwood Place.
Applicant Andy Bartick seeks a variance to build a 207 sq ft unenclosed front porch 17.33 feet from the front property line. Staff finds it meets variance standards.
Amendment to the existing sign plan for Hampton Inn and Suites at 10600 Wayzata Blvd.
Application for two additional wall signs at the porte-cochere. Staff recommends denial, stating the site lacks unique visibility needs. The applicant withdrew the application on Sept. 24.
Tree removal and front yard setback variances for a garage and living space addition at 16820 Edgewood Ave.
Request for variances due to unauthorized removal of 100% of high-priority trees and a 24.97-foot front yard setback. Staff recommends approval of the variances.
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