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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CASE #97-2
Before the City of Aspen Board of Adjustment
TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS AFFECTED BY THE REQUESTED ZONING OR USE VARIANCE
DESCRIBED BELOW:
Pursuant to the Official Code of Aspen of June 25, 1962, as amended, a public hearing will be held in the
BASEMENT MEETING ROOM, City Hall, Aspen, Colorado, (or at such other place as the meeting may
be then adjourned) to consider an application filed with the said Board of Adjustment requesting authority
for variance from the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 26, Official Code of Aspen. All persons
affected by the proposed variance are invited to appear and state their views, protests or objections. If you
caonot appear personally at such meeting, you are urged to state your views by letter, particularly if you
have objection to such variance, as the Board of Adjustment will give serious consideration to the opinions
of surrounding property owners and others affected in deciding whether to grant or deny the request for
variance.
Particulars of the hearing and requested variance are as follows:
Date and Time of Meeting:
Date: February 13, 1997 City Council Meeting Room
Time: 4:00 P.M.
Owner for Variance:
Applicant for Variance:
Name: Highlands Investments Ltd. c/o Valerio/Johnson
Gibson - Reno Architects, L.L.C.
Address: c/o Gibson Reno, 210 East Hyman, Aspen, CO 81611
Location or description of property:
Hoag Subdivision, Lot 3, Aspen, CO 81611
Variances Requested: Applicant is requesting a Variance that will change the 100' Front Yard
Set Back to a 30' Front Yard Set Back.
Will applicant be represented by Counsel: YES: X NO:
The City of Aspen Board of Adjustment
130 S. Galena Street
Aspen, CO 81611
Charles Paterson, Chairman
AGENDA
ASPEN BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT COMMISSION
Special Meeting
Thursday, January 22, 1998 at 4:00 p.m.
Sister Cities Meeting Room, City Hall
I. ROLL CALL
II. MINUTES
III. COMMENTS
A. Commissioners Comments
B. Staff Comments
C. Public Comments (not concerning items on the Agenda)
IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Case #98-01 Durant Condominium Association
718 - 748 South Galena Street, Aspen, CO
Variance from the required height, setback and floor area
requirements to construct 5 exterior elevators.
B. Case #97-2 Hoag Subdivision Lot 3,1125 Ute Avenue,
Aspen, CO - Valerio
Variance extension request for variance granted 2/13/97
VI. ADJOURN
1_..
BROOKE A. PETERSON
GIDEON I. KAUFMAN*
LAW OFFICES OF
KAUFMAN & PETERSON, P.c.
315 EAST HYMAN AVENUE
ASPEN. COLORADO 81611
TELEPHONE
(970) 925-8166
FACSIMILE
(970) 925-1090
HAL S. DISHLER "*
OF COUNSEL:
ERIN L. FERNANDEZ-
. ALSO ADMITTED IN MARYlAND
- ALSO ADMnTED IN TEXAS
- ALSO ADMITTED IN FLORIDA
VIA HAND DELIVERY
December 16, 1997
City of Aspen Board of Adjustment
c/o Sara Thomas, Zoning Officer
AspenlPitkin Community Development Dept
City of Aspen
130 South Galena Street
Aspen, Colorado 81611
Re: Lot 3. Hoal! Subdivision
Dear Sirs:
Please allow this letter to serve as an application on behalf of my client, Highlands Investment,
Ltd., for an extension of the seventy-foot (70') front yard setback variance granted on February 13,
1997. Copies of Sara Thomas' Memorandum of February 4, 1997 and our Development Application
are attached hereto for your reference.
Highlands Investment, Ltd. respectfully requests that the variance approval be extended for
one (1) year pursuant to the powers of the Board of Adjustment set forth in the City of Aspen
Municipal Code Section 26.108.070(3). As you know, this is a very steep site and since the variance
has been granted, my client has been engaged in discussions and studies regarding the best manner
in which to engineer the driveway to the site. The plan for the driveway to Lot 3 still needs the
approval of the City of Aspen Planning and Zoning Commission pursuant to its 8040 Greenline
review authority.
My client is extremely concerned with the sensitive nature of the site, and these hardships
which it has encountered include the time and expense involved in making sure that all aspects of
construction on the site are done in the most environmentally sensitive manner which is economically
feasible.
Furthermore, all of the circumstances set forth in Section 26.108.040(1) and (2) in the original
application are still applicable to this request. The location of the home with a thirty-foot (30') front
yard setback will still locate the residence away from the avalanche path on the property, and this
City of Aspen Board of Adjustment
December 16, 1997
Page 2
location is still the least hazardous area on the parcel as determined by the Planning and Zoning
Commission. The proposed location with the variance continues to be in conformance with the
8040 Greenline standards since it will allow the residence to be constructed with a minimum of
grading and disturbance to the site. Therefore, the standards set forth in Section 26.108.040(1) have
been met. As was stated in Ms. Thomas' Memorandum, this variance is the minimum required to
permit development on the parcel in the least hazardous location. Our request, therefore, is still
consistent with Section 26.108.040(2).
Lastly, the unique nature of this site and the strict application of the zoning code would cause
my client practical difficulty and unnecessary hardship. There are most definitely special circum-
stances associated with Lot 3, Hoag Subdivision, and the extension of this variance will not confer
upon my client any special privilege denied to other parcels in the same zone district.
Pursuant to your authority, we respectfully request that the variance granted on February 13,
1997 be extended for one (1) more year, until February 13, 1998.
Should you need further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thank you very
much for your attention to this matter.
Yours very truly,
BAP/ljk
Enclosure
cc: James Valerio (via facsimile)
Mark Johoson (via facsimile)
August Reno (via facsimile)
Thomas Todd, Esq. (via facsimile)
letters\asp-board of adjustment
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.1.
26.108.070
26.108.070 Expiration.
A. Expiration. Unless vested as part of a development plan pursuant 10 Section 26.52.080. and except
as otherwise established by the board of adjustment, a Yariance granted under this chapter shall automatically
expire after twelve (12) months from the date of approval unless development has been commenced as illustrated
by the issuance of a building pennit.
B. Extension The ooard of adjustment may grant a one time extension of a development order inCOtpOl1lling
a variance for up to twelve (12) months. All requests for an extension must be submitted thirty (30) days prior
to the expiration of the existing development order. must demonstrate good cause showing that an extension
is necessary. and must demonstrate that the circumstances as set ,fOrth in Seetion26.108.040 ~r (2) are
still applicable. (Ord. No. 69-1990. g 5: Code 1971. g 10-107) (S €.1Z Biliw.) _
]6:108:040 Standards applicable to variances.
A. In orderro authorize a variance from the dimensional requirements of Title 26. the board of adjustment
shall make a finding that the following three (3) circumstances exist:
I. The grant of variance will be generally consistent with the purposes. goals. objectives. and policies
of the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan and this title:
2.' The grant of Yariance is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the
parceL building or struClUre: and
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BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
FEBRUARY 13. 1997
Charlie Paterson opened the regular meeting at 4:09 p.m. Rick Head, Jim Iglehart,
Ron Erickson, and Howard DeLuca were present. David Schott was excused and
Dan Martineau absent. City Staff present were David Hoefer and Sara Thomas.
PUBLIC HEARING:
CASE #97-2 HOAG SUBDIVISION LOT 3, 1125 UTE A VENUE
VALERIO PROPERTY
Charlie Paterson asked for the notice of posting. David Hoefer stated for the
record the notice was sufficient. Roy Parsons, Architect, provided the notice.
Brooke Peterson, Attorney for Applicant, explained this was the second time that
this applicant was before the Board. He said the last variance expired due to the
lack of construction activity by the previous owner. He noted the 8040 Greeline
was approved by P&Z in December of 1996.
Parsons stated the site was very steep and accessed by a shared driveway from the
side with an elevation that hits the middle of the building. He said the site is large
but covered by an avalanche path with concerns for the location of the property
and driveway access. There is a 100' setback required which would place the
building 40' up the slope and extend the driveway up hill with switch backs. He
noted this was not a viable alternative, especially because the 8040 Greeline
would not allow. Parsons said with the 100' setback for the avalanche path, the
building would be too small and the site difficult to build on. He commented that
because of the lot size and location, it was given conservation zoning. He said this
was the most site specific location. Peterson explained Sara Thomas' Memo
reflects the requirements for granting the variance very adequately.
No public comments.
Ron Erickson asked the total square footage. Parsons replied that it was toned
down to about 5,500 sf. Rick Head stated that amount of square footage is less
than what was actually allowed in the conservation zone. Erickson stated that
would be true if were a typical lot, but it is not. He said that a 2,000 sf house
would probably be able to be placed on this lot without the 70' variance. Head
said they would need a variance whether a 2,000 sf or 10,000 sfhouse was placed
on this lot. Parsons explained that even a 500 sf cabin would have the same
problem with the variance because of the elevations. Erickson asked where would
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BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
FEBRUARY 13. 1997
the building have to be moved back to for a 60' variance. He said that it appears
the way the house is designed there are 10' - 20' of variance not needed. Erickson
stated the Board was required to allow a minimum variance.
Parsons answered that much time was spent on the 8040 Greenline and the garage
location (the front facade). He said there would be more grading required by
moving the house farther up the hill and farther away from the driveway access.
These mature trees may be disturbed moving the house up the hill. Erickson asked
for a copy of the 8040 Greenline. He said that he reviewed the last time this site
came through and he could not see any difference in the building envelope.
Head asked if there was a re-vegetation plan in the 8040 Greenline for the switch
backs behind the house. Peterson said they were required to have retaining walls
and avalanche impact lodes as recommended by Art Mears in his avalanche
analysis dated 1/97 (and was made part of the 8040 Greenline review). He noted
the unused driveway easement through the lot shall be vacated and the upper
portion re-vegetated with the lower retained solely as a trail easement.
Head favored the 70' setback and was scrutinized about 3 or 4 years ago. He saw
no reason to amend the request and felt it was very clean variance. DeLuca
favored the house lower on the hill, to keep it where it was located. Erickson
stated the variance request could be reduced with design changes. Iglehart was in
favor of it. Paterson said this was looked at before and had concerns about
. moving it up 10' which could cause more problems and this was the best solution.
Erickson was surprised there were no neighbors present. Head stated there were
two more houses being constructed adjacent to this one. These houses and lots
were in the county but shared the same driveway.
MOTION: Rick Head moved to approve the variance request for a
seventy foot (70') front yard setback variance at 1125 Ute Avenue,
Hoag Subdivision Lot#3, finding that the review standards have been
met. Ron Erickson second. MOTION APPROVED 4-1. (Jim Iglehart,
Howard DeLuca, Charlie Paterson and Rick Head for, Ron Erickson opposed.)
CASE # 93-3, LEWIS RESIDENCE - 935 GillSON
Charlie Paterson stated the applicant requested an 18' variance from the front yard
set back requirement to construct a garage.
2
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AVALANCHE HAZARD ANALYSIS, BARKER PROPER1Y, ASPEN, COLORADO
PREPARED FOR
MR. JACK I3ARKER
Arthur 1. Hears, P. E.. Inc.
Gunnison, Colorado
January, 1987
J%?Ii
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_ .....,U was requested by Mr. Jack Barker of
Aspen and has the follo\1ing objectives:
1. site inspection of avalanche terrain;
2. analysis of avalanche characteristics and risk;
3. review of previous work;
4. recommendations.
,
The report is site specific, thus the results and recommendatiGn~
cannot be extended to other locations.
AVALANCHE CON01TIONS
Avalanches affecting the Barker property in Sec. 18. T. 10 S.,
R. 84 N., City of Aspen. originate on the northeast-facing slope of Bell
Hountain. Avalanche starting zones are located immediately belovl promin-
ent cliffs at approximately 8,800 feet elevation, as much as 1000 feet
above the valley floor. The starting zones, or areas in which unstable
snow accumulates, are small, steep, and generallY discontinuous. There-
fore, avalanches will usually be small and unlikely to reach the 8arker
property. However, major avalanches can occur in response to exceptional
weather and/or snowpack conditions at any time during the Movember-
April snow season. Major avalanches are known to have deposited debris
on the old railroad grade in 1964, 1973, and 1974. The largest and most
frequent avalanches occur in the approximately 50-yard wide open slope
on the western edge of the property, which is also the site of the
avalanches that are known to have reached the railroad grade. A ski
trail and the proposed access driveway to the Barker property cross the
lower portion of this path.
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....~, ,~~rsed aspen. This stand of
trees, which is the proposed site of the new home, shows no sign of
avalanche damage for the life of the forest (approximately 80 years).
Site inspection showed some damage to aspen Iii thin the forest, but this
was apparently caused by an unusually heavy early June snowstorm in 1984.
This storm produced similar ~ideSpread damage throughout. central Colorado.
The avalanche conditions at this site were discussed in a detailed
report to Steve Crowley and Thomas O. f1cAuley which I~as authored in 1973
by l,~itney tl. Borland and Hans Frutiger. [n my opinion, the 8orland!
Frutiger report was a thorough and accurate appraisal of the avalanche
conditions at this site. The present study discusses in greater detail
the nature of the risk involved in building within the potential avalanche
area.
PROPOSED DEVELOPI1ENT AND AVALANCHE HAZARD
Discussions and a site inspection liith fIr. Jack Barker provided"-
detailed information about the layout of the proposed development. The
development layout and building envelope is shown on the attached map.
The development is subject to avalanche hazard of 2 types:
1. hazard on the access driveway that crosses the open avalanche
path discussed above; and
2. hazard to the house, which will be built approximately 50 feet
east of the prominent avalanche path, within the timber wedge.
Because hazards "1" and "2" differ significantly, they are discussed
separately below.
The access driveway is clearly within the boundaries of the main
liestern avalanche path. Both upper and lower legs of the proposed
_' .~, avalanches may have also reached
the dri velvay a Ii gnment, but gone undetected. Although fi rm data on
avalanche frequency is not available, an average frequency (at the drive-
W~y) of 3-5 years seems reasonable, based on vegetation damage and the
sporadic and discontinuous historical record.
Overall risk is based on avalanche frequency and the proposed use of
drivelvay. If we assume an exposure time (to the avalanche) of 1 minute
per trip' and 10 trips per day on the driveway, total daily exposure is
10 minutes (out of 1,440 minutes per day), or 0.7% of the time. If the
avalanche occurs once in every 3 years on the average, the joint proba-
bility, P, that an avalanche will reach someone while he is traveling
the driveway is computed
P = (4) (10/1440) = 0.23% per year.
..
This calculatiDn assumes random avalanche occurrence and random driveway
use. In other words, the prevailing avalanche and/or weather conditions
will have no influence on the use of the driveway.
From the standpoint of risk assessment, this 0.23% annual probability
should be compared with other risks that are co~only accepted. For
exa~ple, daily travel during unstable avalanche conditions is common on
Loveland, Berthoud, and Red ~Iountain passes, each of which is crossed by
numerous avalanches every year. Some of these avalanches occur more often
than once per Year. Depending on the route taken through Colorado, the
avalanche hazard encountered on a trip to Aspen may exceed the risK.tn
ascending the driveway.
.~-".,
.... UB uccupied continuously, especially
during severe weather and avalanche conditions. Although the building
envelope is approximately 50 feet inside the timber wedge (east of the
avalanche path), it probably is exposed to avalanches of exceptional
volume because these will spread laterally as they descend and enter
the undisturbed forest. As a rough estimate, the building site could
be reached by avalanches with return periods of 50-100 years (1-2% annual
probability). A building located here and intended for winter occupancy
must be designed for avalanche impact and deposition loads. Final design
criteria should be developed in conjunction with building plans and
should include:
1. Specification_of avalanche forces (resolved into mutually
perpendicular directions); and
2. Oetermination of loading criteria (static or impact).
None of these design parameters can be specified at present because
details of building size, shape, and orientation strongly control the
details of interaction with the structure. However, experience at many
avalanche sites in North America and Europe indicates that construction
of an "avalanche-proof" structure is feasible at this location.
RECOMI1ENDA nONS
The following recommendations consider the avalanche characteristics
and relative hazard as discussed above.
1. Avoid placement of permanent structures within the prominent
west avalanche path.
2. Allow residential construction within the timber wedge and
inside the building envelope as specified by Mr. Jack Barker
during our field inspection on December 16, 1986 (see attached
map) .
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_.~,allcne risk is small when compared to the risk
accepted at many mountain sites (e.g., Vail, Juneau, Ketchum, Alta).
the potential hazard should be cprefully discussed with and understood
by future developers or owners of the site. They may reduce the risk
even further through learning about the nature and timing of'avalanches.
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9-9255993 P.2.Bl
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MEMORANDUM
FROM:
Board of Adjustment '. X'
Stan Clauson, Comml.lnlty,Development Director
Julie Ann Woods, Cemmu!'Iity Development Dep irectorCf1!'
Sara Thomas, Zoning Offic;er ' .
TO:
THRU:
RE:
DATE:
1125 Ute Avenue. Hellg SUbdivision Lot #3
February 4.1997
~=====S========____D~2".==..=..=====-==."."=-~==~~.~....-~-·
SUMMARY: The applicant requests liI variance from the front yard setbac:k
dimensional requirement for Lot #3 of the Hoag Subdivision. The 3.04 acre lot is
located in the Conservation Zone District. which h&l8 a required front yard
setback of one hundred feet. (1 00'). The applicant is proposing a front yard
setback of thirty feet (30'), requiring a front yard setback variance of seventy feet
(70'), in order to locate the proposed residence away from a significant
avalanche path that exists on the property.
The Board of Adjustment approved iI 70' foot front yard setback variance request
for this lot en March 23, 1989. (See attached Exhibit ~A'1. The previous owner'
was granted an 8040 Greenline app~al from the P&Z c;ommisslon in 1990.
The 8040 approval was revoked In 1993 when the 'FI&Z c;ommission found that
the previous owner had violated or failed to comply with the conditlans of
approval. The previous Board of AdJlilstment variance approval automatically
expired as of March 23, 1990, due tel the lack of the Issuance of II building
permit
The current owner was granted 8040 Gl'ftnllne approval on December 17,1996.
Both P&Z and staff approved the location of the proposed residence. finding that
the location was in ~he least hazardous 'area of the parcel. The P&Z was aware
that the approval was based on the project receiving the front 'yard setback
variance.
Please refer to the attached drawings :and written information provided by the
applicant for a complete presentation ohhe proposed variance.
.FFEB 11 '97 12:29PM GIB & RENO'ITKIN COM DEU
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9-9255993 P. 3' e2
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APPLICANT:
Highlands Investment, Ltd. C/o James Valerio
LOCATION:
1125 Ute Avenue, Aspen, Colorado
Hoag Subdivision, Lot #3
REVIEW STANDARDS AND STAFF EVALUA.TION: Pursuant to Section
26.108.040 of the Municipal Code. in order to authori~e II 'rclriance from the
dimensionai requirements of Title 26. the board of adjustment shall make a
finding that the following three (3) circumstances exist, . .
1. Standard: The grant of the variance will be generally consistent with the
purposes, goals, objectives, and policies of the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan and this title.
~..pons.: A condition of approval for development in an area
located above the 8040 greenline is that the design and location of
the proposed development are compatible with the terrain on the
parcel and that any grading will minimize dlsturbanca to the terrain.
The proposed location of the residence meets these standards. The
required 100' front yard setback would force the applicant to
extensively grade the driveway and disturb a greater amount of the
natural terrain.
2. Standard: The grant of the variance Is the minimum variance that will
make possible the reasonable use or the parcel, builcling, or structure.
Response: The constraints placed on the lot by the avalartche
hazards and the slope limit a safe location for the .propOHd
residence. The 70' front yard setback variance appears tD be the
minimum required to permit development in the least hazardous .
location posaible.
3. Standard: Literal interpretation and enforcement of the tenns and
provisions of this title would deprive the applicant of rights commonly
enjoyed by other parcels. In the same zone district, and would cause the
applicant unnecessary hardship or practical difficulty. In detennining
whether an applicanh right would be deprived, the board shall consider
whether either of the following conditions apply:
a. There are special conditions and circumstances whioh are unique to
the parcel. building or structure, which are not applicable to ether parcels.
structures or buildings in the lame'zone diltrict and which do not result
from the actions of the applicant; or
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b. Granting the variance will not c:onfer upon the applicant any special
privilege denied by the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan and the terms of
this title to other parcels, buildings or structures. in the same zone distriCt.
Response: The parcel is significantly impaGted by the steepness of
the site and the large area of the lot that is covered by an Avalanche
Path Zone. . These conditions are unique tg this parcel and granting
II "arianGe will not confer special privileges to the applicant.
ALTERNATIVES: The Board of Adjustment may consider any of the following
alternatives:
. ' Approve the variance as requested.
. Approve the variance with conditions.
. Table action to request further information be provided by the app'llcant or
interested parties.
. Deny the variance finding .that the review standards are not mel .
RECOMMENDA TlON: Staff recommends approval of the front yard ..U-ck
variance ,.quest In order to permit development on the parcel in an area
IOGated outside of the identified avalanche path.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: "I move to approve the ~u.stfor a seventy
foot (10') hot ya.. 7"25 UtlI A...... H... SoIldMa'" Lot 13..
finding that Ute review sta . rds have been ~" .
, ,'Airl tAc:.c..
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CITY OF .A.SPEN'
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
DEVELOPMENT APPUCATION
DATE Jan. 16, 1997' 19_
CASE iF
APPUCANT Gibson-Reno Architects. L.L.C.
PHONE 925-5968
MAILING ADDRESS 210 E. Hyman. suite 202 ASgen. CO 81611
O~ Hiqh1ands Investment. Ltd.
PHONE 925-1860
MAILING ADDRESS c/o ,James Valerio
.P.O. Box 1376
Asoen, CO, 81612
LOCATION OF PROPERTY .. 11?S TTt-p 11,,1" Hn"rT Sl1hClivi "inn T.nt In
(St:reer. Block Number and Lot ~umcer)
WILL YOU BE REPRESENTED BY COlJNCJL: YESl NO_
Below, describe cle:u-ly the proposed variance. including all dimensions JIld justific:uion for the
variance. (Additional paper may be used if necessary.) Tne building pennit :l!lplic:ltion and any
other information you feel is pertinent should accompany this application. and will be made part of
this case.
We are requesting a Variance that will chanae the 100'~rontyard
s~tback to a 30' Front yard Setback. See attached letter for additional
informat"ion.
Applicant's Signamrc ~rB .
'3IP
REASONS FOR DENIAL OF BUILDING PElt.'VIIT, BASED ON THE ASPEN CITY
CODE, CHAPTER 24. AN OPINION CONCERNING THIS VARIANCE WILL BE
PRESEi'ITED TO THE BOARD BY THE ZONING DEPARTML"l"T STAFF.
DATE PERMIT DE:'IIED
OFFICIAL
DATE OF APPUCATION
HEARING DATE
;.~
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V ALARIO-JOHNSON
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT APPLICATON
DAVID
GIBSON
AlA
We are requesting a variance from the 100' Front yard Setback
required by the "Conservation" Zone District. Site conditions,
avalanche hazard and 8040 Green1ine approvals present the
need for a 30' Front yard setback.
AUGUST
RENO
AlA
The Hardships/Justifications relevant to our request are as
follows:
1) Site Conditions: This is a very steep site (30%-40%
slope) that is heavily covered with tall, mature
evergreens. The lot is located above Ute Avenue and
the most appropriate access will be from a shared
driveway at the North East corner ofthe property.
Maintaining a 30' Front yard and a 30' Sideyard Setback
allows driveway access with minimal grading and
reduces the total area of disturbed site vegetation. The
100' Front yard Setback would require extensive grading
for an accessible driveway and would disturb
considerably more vegetation if the building envelope
was placed higher up the slope.
2) Avalanche Hazard: Although the site is a large parcel
(3.04 acres) a large portion of it is covered by an
Avalanche Path Zone which should not be built in. (See
attached Site Plan and Avalanche Hazard Analysis.)
Honoring the 100' Setback will force the building
envelope into the Avalanche Path, creating an
unacceptable hazard. The 30' Setback allows the
building envelope to be located safely away from the
identified avalanche path.
3) On December 17, 1996 this project was granted
approval for an 8040 Green1ine review and Conditional
Use for an AD.U. The issues focused on concerned
the bui1dings location on the site and minimizing the
impact on the site. The determination is that the current
design, which is based on a 30' Front yard Setback, is the
best location for site compatability and a building
envelope farther up the slope is not appropriate. The
8040 Review Committee was aware of our need to
receive a variance for the Setback and their approval
anticipated a successful application.
SCOTT
SMITH
AlA
GIBSON. RENO
-ARCHITECTS, L.L,C,'
III
210 E. HYMAN
N" 202
ASPEN
COLORADO
81611
970.9255968
FACSIMILE
9;0.9255993
P.O. BOX 278
117 N. WILLOW
N'"2
TELLURIDE
COLORADO
81435
970.728.6607
FACSIMILE
970.728.6658
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Valario/Johoson
Page 2
4) This project has undertaken a lengthly approval process.
In 1990 an 8040 Green1ine approval was granted to a
previous owner. At that time a variance was granted
that allowed for the 30' Front yard Setback. In 1993 the
8040 approval was revoked and subsequently the
Setback Variance has lapsed. We believe the same
conditions and justifications that resulted in grating the
Variance then exists now.
Our request for a variance allowing for a 30' Front yard Setback,
we feel is the most desirable, and appropriate way to address
the issues of site compatability, avalanche safety and design
sensitivity.
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MEMORANDUM
FROM:
Board of Adjustment
/7
Stan Clauson, Community Development Director /"V ell}J.
Julie Ann Woods, Community Development Deput!y6irector,,_v "
Sara Thomas, Zoning Officer
TO:
THRU:
RE:
1125 Ute Avenue, Hoag Subdivision Lot #3
DATE:
February 4,1997
--------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The applicant requests a variance from the front yard setback
dimensional requirement for Lot #3 of the Hoag Subdivision. The 3.04 acre lot is
located in the Conservation Zone District, which has a required front yard
setback of one hundred feet (100'). The applicant is proposing a front yard
setback of thirty feet (30'), requiring a front yard setback variance of seventy feet
(70'), in order to locate the proposed residence away from a significant
avalanche path that exists on the property.
The Board of Adjustment approved a 70' foot front yard setback variance request
for this lot on March 23, 1989. (See attached Exhibit "A"). The previous owner
was granted an 8040 Greenline approval from the P&Z commission in 1990.
The 8040 approval was revoked in 1993 when the P&Z commission found that
the previous owner had violated or failed to comply with the conditions of
approval. The previous Board of Adjustment variance approval automatically
expired as of March 23, 1990, due to the lack of the issuance of a building
permit.
The current owner was granted 8040 Greenline approval on December 17, 1996.
Both P&Z and staff approved the location of the proposed residence, finding that
the location was in the least hazardous area of the parcel. The P&Z was aware
that the approval was based on the project receiving the front yard setback
variance.
Please refer to the attached drawings and written information provided by the
applicant for a complete presentation of the proposed variance.
"'''
APPLICANT:
Highlands Investment, Ltd. clo James Valerio
LOCATION:
1125 Ute Avenue, Aspen, Colorado
Hoag Subdivision, Lot #3
REVIEW STANDARDS AND STAFF EVALUATION: Pursuant to Section
26.108.040 of the Municipal Code, in order to authorize a variance from the
dimensional requirements of Title 26, the board of adjustment shall make a
finding that the following three (3) circumstances exist:
1. Standard: The grant of the variance will be generally consistent with the
purposes, goals, objectives, and policies of the Aspen Area
Comprehensive Plan and this title.
Response: A condition of approval for development in an area
located above the 8040 greenline is that the design and location of
the proposed development are compatible with the terrain on the
parcel and that any grading will minimize disturbance to the terrain.
The proposed location of the residence meets these standards. The
required 100' front yard setback would force the applicant to
extensively grade the driveway and disturb a greater amount of the
natural terrain.
2. Standard: The grant of the variance is the minimum variance that will
make possible the reasonable use of the parcel, building, or structure.
Response: The constraints placed on the lot by the avalanche
hazards and the slope limit a safe location for the proposed
residence. The 70' front yard setback variance appears to be the
minimum required to permit development in the least hazardous
location possible.
3. Standard: Literal interpretation and enforcement of the terms and
provisions of this title would deprive the applicant of rights commonly
enjoyed by other parcels in the same zone district, and would cause the
applicant unnecessary hardship or practical difficulty. In determining
whether an applicant's right would be deprived, the board shall consider
whether either of the following conditions apply:
a. There are special conditions and circumstances which are unique to
the parcel, building or structure, which are not applicable to other parcels,
structures or buildings in the same zone district and which do not result
from the actions of the applicant; or
_.
b. Granting the variance will not confer upon the applicant any special
privilege denied by the Aspen Area Comprehensive Plan and the terms of
this title to other parcels, buildings or structures, in the same zone district.
Response: The parcel is significantly impacted by the steepness of
the site and the large area of the lot that is covered by an Avalanche
Path Zone. These conditions are unique to this parcel and granting
a variance will not confer special privileges to the applicant.
ALTERNATIVES: The Board of Adjustment may consider any of the following
alternatives:
. Approve the variance as requested.
. Approve the variance with conditions.
. Table action to request further information be provided by the applicant or
interested parties.
. Deny the variance finding that the review standards are not met.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends approval of the front yard setback
variance request in order to permit development on the parcel in an area
located outside of the identified avalanche path.
RECOMMENDED MOTION: "I move to approve the request for a seventy
foot (70') front yard setback at 1125 Ute Avenue, Hoag Subdivision Lot #3,
finding that the review standards have been met."
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Case 189-6
JACK BARKER/WESTERN HERITAGE LOG HOMES, INC.
BEFORE THE CITY OF ASPEN BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
TO ALL PROPERTY OWNERS AFFECTED BY THE REQUESTED ZONING OR USE
VARIANCE DESCRIBED BELOW:
Pursuant to the Official Code of Aspen of June 25, 1962, as
amended, a public hearing will be held in the Council Room, City
Hall, Aspen, Colorado, (or at such other place as the meeting may
be then adjourned) to consider an application filed with the said
Board of Adjustment requesting authority for variance from the
provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 24, Official Code of
Aspen. All persons affected by the proposed variance are invited
to appear and state their views, protests or objections. If you
cannot appear personally at such meeting, then you are urged to
state your views by letter, particularly if you have objection to
such variance. as the Board of Adjustment will give serious
consideration to the opinions of surrounding property owners and
others affected in deciding whether to grant or deny the request
for variance.
Particulars of the hearing and requested variance are as follows:
Date and Time of Meetinq:
\
'....
Date:
Time:
March 23. 1989
4:00 p.m.
Owner for Variance:
Appellant for Variance:
Name: Jack Barker
Joseph S. Zaluba
Address: Box 3379, Aspen, CO.81612
Location or description of proper tv:
Location: 1125 Ute Ave.
Lot 3, Hoag Subdivision
Variance Requested: Property is located in the "C" Conservation
Zoning area. Front yard setback required is 100ft. Chapter 24
Sec 5-217 (0) (4). Applicant is asking that setback be set at
25ft. A 75ft variance.
Will applicant be represented bv counsel:
I
The City of Aspen Board of Adjustment
130 South Galena Streetl, Aspen, Colorado 81611
Remo Lavagnino, Chairman Jan Carney, Deputy City Clerk
Yes:
x
No:
'\,
I
--,._~
BAM3.23.89
Fred: Action by the Board of Adjustment requires a minimum of 4
aye votes. The question should have been phrased in the positive
as opposed to the negative.
Anne: Which is what we are doing now.
on this one.
I think we should finish
Remo: We have a motion and he is withdrawing his second.
hear a second to Josephine's motion?
Do I
Anne: Yes:
Rick: I would be in favor of granting a variance subject to a
deed restriction. That is the only way I would agree to that.
Josephine:
I already said I wasn't going to change the motion.
Roll call vote:
Anne, no, Rick, no, Josephine, no, Charlie, yes, Remo, no.
variance denied.
CASE #89-6
JACK BARKER/WESTERN HERITAGE LOG HOMES. INC.
Remo read into the record request for variance.
record)
(Attached in
Joseph Zaluba, purchaser of the property from Jack Barker:
Jon Mulford, Zaluba's attorney:
Joseph: This property is located in the Hoag Subdivision which
is above ute Avenue. It is Lot #3. The lot is a 3 acre site
,,,hich is impacted by an avalanche area which is defined by a
report by Arthur Mears. Our main hardship is this avalanche
path. We want to be outside of that so we are attempting to set
this house with the driveway situated such that the house and the
driveway are excluded from the avalanche path coming down on the
Lot #1 Hoag.
This will also allow us easier fire and police access. It will
alS0 minimize the general impact of the house from ute Avenue.
BecJuse of the steepness of the site we can't really move up the
hill. We could never meet the 100ft setback anyway with meeting
Ithis setback on the side. So we have chosen this site based on
our main hardship being the avalanche situation across this
existing drive. That is our basic argument.
16
r
BAM3.23.89
Jon: This existing drive is a deeded easement for access to this
property over here.
Remo: And it goes above your house.
Joseph: It goes above. That is correct.
Ron: Where is the trail.head for the ute Trail?
Joseph: Down here.
Ron: And is that also where the road continues to go off?
Joseph: Yes. That is correct.
adjacent to the ute Trail.
There is a driveway right
Anne: The properties that are right on ute Avenue--the duplexes
existing--do they have a requirement of 100ft front yard setback?
And did they get a variance?
Remo: They are not in Conservation zone.
Rick: Why was this zoned Conservation when the immediately
adjacent properties seem to be a different zone?
Remo: Because it goes up the steep part of the hill. The
steepest part of the hill.
Rick: But what was the purpose of it being Conservation?
Remo: I think they have'a 1080 zone too, don't they?
Joseph: 8040. That is right.
Bill Drueding: Anything above Little Nell's is Conservation.
Ron: I want to ask our city Attorney--I drove up that road and I
saw examples of avalanche coming down through the forest.
Looking at this thing, the lot line doesn't--they are siting this
house a good 2 or 300ft up that road--
Joseph: Approximately.
that first duplex.
It is up a ways.
It is right behind
Ron: The point I was trying to make is that these plans and the
siting of the house they don't show any avalanche danger to the
east. Yet I saw an avalanche there.
Joseph: I think you are right. There is one there.
17
I.
_.
BAM3.23.89
Ron: Not only that but an avalanche guy reported one in 1973 in
his report. They had one in 1988 and 1989.
Joseph: I think you are right. But that was on the adjacent
property and there is avalanche down on this mining claim there.
Ron: I saw the results of that avalanche not 3ft from that
easement on that road in the woods. My concern is, Fred, if we
grant a variance and he gets buried by an avalanche, what is the
City's liability?
Joseph:
structure
avalanche
We are going through 8040 also. We can design this
which we will probably be required to under 8040 for
in the back.
Ron: I am not concerned about where you want to build a house or
how big you want to build or anything like that or whether you
have a right to build it. I am concerned that the avalanche
report did not go deep enough and you may be putting yourself in
the face of an avalanche and then your heirs are going to corne
back and say "Well, we think granting a variance saying there was
no danger zone". I don't want to see something like that.
Remo: What is the City's responsibility? Can they build in the
avalanche path?
Fred: This applicant will have to go through 8040 Greenline
Review. One of the criteria in the 8040 Greenline Review will be
the hazards created by the sit.e. If they determine that there
are hazards that make construction impossible they will deny the
application or force remedial steps. That is the level that that
liability issue will be addressed at.
.Joseph: We have chosen the safest site to build the house and
therefore my case is I am pleading that I need a 25ft setback to
~uild this in the safest place on this lot. The other
considerations we will take up at the 8040.
Fred: If you grant the variance today there is no guarantee that
this house will be built at that zone. The 8040 Greenline Review
may dictate other changes.
Josephine: Then we could still use as our practical difficulty
the avalanche path.
Fred: Absolutely.
Anne: You have this road easement and you are showing that the
18
,,"''"''
BAM3.23.89
25ft setback you are requesting is from the far side of the road.
Bill: We take from property to property line.
Anne: So even if there is a road coming through it you don't
worry about that.
Bill: No.
Anne: Could you put this house back 10ft more?
Ron: Move it west?
There followed many suggestions regarding moving the house.
Anne: We are supposed to grant the minimum variance.
Charlie: So that you have a 30ft side yard--just sliding it
straight back along parallel to the left line.
Joseph: Yes. I think we can do that.
Anne:
t.hink
10ft,
If you can comprQmise and come back a little bit then I
you will get approval a lot easier. If you can go back
I will be willing to grant the variance.
Remo: I went up there and walked that and was shocked to see
t.hat snow avalanche coming through dense trees--big trees. Also
I was shocked to see that it had impacted the house below the
road. One of the avalanches came right across the road and was
into the house below.
Can we modify the variance by asking to put a retaining wall to
deflect avalanche.
several: That is what the 8040 Greenline Review is for.
are going to take care of all of that.
They
Ron: You could write a letter asking them to consider the
dangers of avalanche. That was my big concern.
Josephine:
t.rees are
that not
trees.
I didn't feel concerned about that because those
so big. When the trees are that big that is evidence
a powerful avalanche has come down and taken out the
Remo: But
very dense
situation.
in fact they had knocked down trees in another area of
forest and had come to the road in a very similar
19
. --~--I-
""..,
BAM3.23.89
This is a non-conforming lot of record, right? You have 3 acres
here. You are required to have 10 acres.
Joseph: Right.
Remo: And
required.
frontage.
requirement
bedroom and
it doesn't even have the frontage on it that is
I think you are required to have 400ft of minimum
There is a. parking requirement and the parking
is 1 space for each bedroom. And they have a 3
they only show a 2 car garage.
Anne: It is 5 bedroom.
Joseph: The fact that we are moving it up will help that. The
only negative to moving it up is we are going to have to cut a
little more out of the mountain. We will have to landscape that.
But we will go through that on 8040 with them. And if we have to
meet parking it might be the only way we could do it anyway would
be to move it up.
Remo: My only other concern is that destruction of the very
t.rees to build a house which are supposed to better protect you.
r am thinking about a minimum of taking out of trees.
Fred: That is not within your purview. I would urge you to
erticulate those concerns at the 8040 stage.
Remo asked if there were any further questions. There were none
and he closed the public portion of the meeting.oseph
Anne read into the record a letter from Robert and Carole Howard
stating their objections to the variance. (Attached in record)
Ron read into the record a letter from Gary and Susan Rappaport
stating their objections to the variance. (Attached in record)
MOTION
Rick: I move that we approve Case #89-6 for this 30ft side yard
restriction.
Remo: Move the house to the--side yard setback as indicated in
the drawing.
Anne seconded the motion.
Roll call vote:
Anne, yes, Rick, yes, Josephine, yes, Charlie, yes, Remo, yes.
20
_.
BAM3.23.89
variance granted.
Ron: I would like to make it a part of the record and request
Remo to write a letter to the 8040 Review Committee that we have
granted a variance, visited the site and are concerned about
avalanche conditions and would they please be extra careful in
their review.
Note: Just for the record this was done and the 8040 Review
Committee did read the letter into their record.
Anne made a motion meeting be adjourned.
Josephine seconded the motion with all in favor.
Time was 5.50pm.
~\
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Janic1 M. carney,
~.
21
- 1-
/.~,'-"
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
RE:
DATE:
WELTON ANDERSON, Chairman-Planning & Zoning commission
REMO LAVAGNINO, Chairman-Aspen Board of Adjustment
BARKER: Lot 3 Hoag Subdivision-8040 Greenline Review
March 28, 1989
At the scheduled meeting of the Board of Adjustment on March 23,
1989 we heard and granted a variance to applicant Jack Barker:
Lot 3 Hoag Subdivision (Case #89-6).
We granted the front yard setback variance to more safely situate
the structure in a denser stand of larger trees, out of the major
avalanche path. In walking the road to the lot, there were
substantial avalanche occurrences that crossed the road. Looking
uphill I noticed maj or snow movement had occurred in trees the
size and density similar to conditions on the subject property.
While the Board felt a need to further
avalanche threat, it did not want to
Commission's role in their 8040 Greenline
mitigate
encumber
Review.
the potential
the Planning
The Board has asked me to write this memo to express our concerns
and offer recommendations for your consideration. Under the
direction of the Engineering Dept. we felt that a deflection
barrier should be constructed uphill to direct any snow movement
away from the structure and toward the main avalanche path. The
protective barrier should be strong enough to withstand avalanche
impact and deposition loads. Further, that there be a close
monitoring and minimal removal of trees during construction.
cc: Cindy Houben, Planner
1-...
.
.
THE CITY OF ASPEN
130 S. Galena
Aspen, CO 81611
I
City fax # (970) 920-5197
City phone # (9"/0) 920-5000
Total pages including this cover sheet: 3
TO:~
COMPANY: GuOSO^, laPJo
FAX#:~"6 -S493 PHONE#:
,
FROM: ~ DEPT: Ct..~~ O~
FAX #0 o. 61J!!j PHONE #: t) .. 5~"-,
MEMO: tJmee. OF P~~I-'<:'" ~~
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130 SOUTH GALENA STREET' ASPEN, COLORADO 81611 . PHONE 920.5000. FAX
920.5197
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SAYOIL (USA), INC.
600 TRAVIS ST., # 6110
HOUSTON, TX 77002-3007
300' Rad. Mailing List
AJAX PAFW
C r TV DF: ASF'EN
130 S GALENA 8T
ASPEN CO plio 11
.
GOLUB, GENE
GOLUB AND COMPANY C/O
625 N. MICHIGAI\I
CHICAGO, IL 60611
UTE CEMETERY
CITY DF ASF'EN
1:50 S GALE~IA GT
ASPEN CO 81611
DAVIS I G JR
110 S MARION AVE
VENTNOR NJ 08406
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HIGHLAND INVESTMENTS & JOHNSON, KAREN
HOLLAND & HART -C/O
600 E MAIN ST
ASPEN CO 81611
ASPEN SKIING COMPANY
CHANCE LODE
POST OFFICE BOX 1248
ASPEN, CO 81612
FRAZER, ,JANE Z.
FRAZER. WILLIAM R.
250 TUNNEL ROAD
BERKELEY, CA 94705
RAPPAPORT SUSAN H & GARY B TRUSTEES
RAPPAPORT SUSAN H REVOCABLE TRUST
3940 WALDON SHORES RD
WAYZATA MN 55391
COLEMAN, THOMAS B.
321 ST. CHARLES AVE.
NEW ORLEANS, LA 70130
FORIER JOHN & CLARK NEAL J
SHIRSAT AJAY D
F'O BOX 11
WOLCOTT CO 81655
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;~~ject: ~~I~f-Ij;e;-'~~~if~RANSMITTAL
Arch. proj. # q(,tJ7 Date: I / l7 / f17 ...
, I
We Transmit: X Herewith
_Under Seperate Cover
_Per Your Request
Via: Mail
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The Following:
_Specifications
_Drawings
Addenda
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Product Literature
Samples
_Change Order
Shop Drawing
X Other
Date:
1/1 v /'f1
.
For Your: Information
_Record / Use
Review
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>< Dist. to Parties
Action Taken:
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Reviewed
Revise & Resubmit
Make Corrections
_Submit Specific Item
_ No Exceptions
_ Rejected
LETTER
GIBSON.RENO
. ,... R CHI TEe T S, L. L.C. .
ill
210 E. HYMAN
N" 202
Description:
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II () 00 p~
ASPEN
COLORADO
81611
970.925.5%8
FACS1MILE
970.925.5993
Copies:
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P.O. BOX 278
117 N.WILLOW
NO 2
Copies To:
(With end.)
TELLURIDE
COLORADO
81435
970.728.6607
FACSIMILE
970.7286658
Submitted bY:_~-pjll\oV~
,
GIBSON & RENO'
210 EASTHY
ASPEN; . ... .6~1
(970) 921;-5966
ALPINE BANK
ASPEN. CO 81611
82~1021
2043
1/16/97
'AYTOTHE
JRDER OF
Aspen City Clerk
$ **110.00
One Hundred Ten and 001100* ...********************* ***** **** ** * ***** *** *******.****************...... * ** *** * ** * ** **
DOLLARS
,...,SecuIflyIealur8s
~-
Oe\aiISonbad<.
Aspen City Clerk
11'00 2ol, :III' .: ~o 2 ~o :ll,o 71:
101000'S~
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ValariolHoag Board of Adjustment Applicatiou
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CITY OF ASPEN
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION
DATE Jan. 16. 1997' 19_
CASE if
APPLICANT Gibson-Reno Architects. L.L.C.
PHONE 925_5968
MAlLINGADDRESS
210 E. Hyman, Suite 202 As~en, CO 81611
O~ Hiqh1ands Investment. Ltd.
PHONE 925-1860
c/o James Valerio
P.O. Box 1376
Asoen, CO. 81612
LOCATIONOFPROPERTYull?~ TTt-" 7",,, RO'Hl C;l1hCliviRion
(Streer, Block Number and Lot ~umber)
MAlLING ADDRESS
Lot .n
WlLL YOU BE REPRESENTED BY COlJNCIL? YES.l. NO_
Below, describe clearly the proposed variance, including all dimensions and justific:mon for the
variance. (Additional paper may be used if necessary.) The building pemrit applic:mon and any
other information you feel is pertinent should accompany this application. and will be made part of
this case.
We are requesting a Variance that will chanqe the 100'~rontyard
S~tback to a 30' Front yard Setback. See attached letter for additional
informat:ion.
Applicant's SignatUre ~Y> ~W .
~
REASONS FOR DENIAL OF BUILDING PElt.'VIIT, BASED ON THE ASPEN CITY
CODE, CHAPTER 24. AN OPINION CONCElt."'lING THIS VARIANCE WILL BE
PRESENTED TO THE BOARD BY THE ZONING DEPARTME~l STAFF.
DATE PER.'vITT DEJ,\IIED
OFFICIAL
DATE OF APPLICATION
HEARING DATE
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V ALARIO-JOHNSON
BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT APPLICATON
DAVID
GIBSON
AlA
We are requesting a variance from the l()(}' Front yard Setback
required by the "Conservation" Zone District. Site conditions,
avalanche hazard and 8040 Green1ine approvals present the
need for a 30' Front yard setback.
AUGUST
RENO
AlA
The Hardships/Justifications relevant to our request are as
follows:
1) Site Conditions: This is a very steep site (30%-40%
slope) that is heavily covered with tall, mature
evergreens. The lot is located above Ute Avenue and
the most appropriate access will be from a shared
driveway at the North East comer of the property.
Maintaining a 30' Front yard and a 30' Sideyard Setback
allows driveway access with minimal grading and
reduces the total area of disturbed site vegetation. The
100' Front yard Setback would require extensive grading
for an accessible driveway and would disturb
considerably more vegetation if the building envelope
was placed higher up the slope.
2) Avalanche Hazard: Although the site is a large parcel
(3.04 acres) a large portion of it is covered by an
Avalanche Path Zone which should not be built in. (See
attached Site Plan and Avalanche Hazard Analysis.)
Honoring the 1 ()()' Setback will force the building
envelope into the Avalanche Path, creating an
unacceptable hazard. The 30' Setback allows the
building envelope to be located safely away from the
identified avalanche path.
3) On December 17, 1996 this project was granted
approval for an 8040 Green1ine review and Conditional
Use for an A.D.U. The issues focused on concerned
the buildings location on the site and minimizing the
impact on the site. The determination is that the current
design, which is based on a 30' Front yard Setback, is the
best location for site compatability and a building
envelope farther up the slope is not appropriate. The
8040 Review Committee was aware of our need to
receive a variance for the Setback and their approval
anticipated a successful application.
SCOTT
SMITH
AlA
GIBSON. RENO
.ARCHITECTS, L.L.C."
III
210 E. HYMAN
N" 202
ASPEN
COLORADO
81611
970.9255968
FACSIMILE
970.925.5993
roo BOX 278
117 N. WILLOW
N"2
TELLURIDE
COLORADO
81435
970.728.6607
FACSIMILE
970.728.6658
ValariolJohnson
Page 2
4) This project has undertaken a lengthly approval process.
In 1990 an 8040 Oreenline approval was granted to a
previous owner. At that time a variance was granted
that allowed for the 30' Prontyard Setback. In 1993 the
8040 approval was revoked and subsequently the
Setback Variance has lapsed. We believe the same
conditions and justifications that resulted in grating the
Variance then exists now.
Our request for a variance allowing for a 30' Prontyard Setback,
we feel is the most desirable, and appropriate way to address
the issues of site compatability, avalanche safety and design
sensitivity.
valjohn.doc
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,II
AVALANCHE HAZARD ANALYSIS, BARKER PROPERTY, ASPEN, COLORADO
PREPARED FOR
MR. JACK BARKER
Arthur L l1ears, P,E., Inc.
Gunnison, Colorado
January, 1987
J%?Ji
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__oW nct. requested by Mr. Jack Barker of
Aspen and has the following objectives:
1. site inspection of avalanche terrain;
2. analysis of avalanche characteristics and risk;
3. review of previous work;
4. recommendations.
. .
The report is site specific, thus the results and recommendations.
cannot be extended to other locations.
AVALANCHE CONDITIONS
Avalanches affecting the Barker property in Sec. 18, T. 10 S.,
R. 84 W., City of Aspen. originate on the northeast-facing slope of Bell
Hountain. Avalanche starting zones are located immediately belovl promin-
ent cliffs at approximately 8.800 feet elevation, as much as 1000 feet
above the valley floor. The starting zones, or areas in which unstable
sno\~ accumulates, are small, steep. and generally discontinuous. There-
fore, avalanches will usually be small and unlikely to reach the Barker
property. However. major avalanches can occur in response to exceptional
weather and/or snowpack conditions at any time during the Movember-
April snOH season. Major avalanches are known to have deposited debris
on the old railroad grade in 1964, 1973. and 1974. The largest and most
frequent ayalanches occur in the approximately 50-yard wide open slope
on the western edge of the property, which is also the site of the
avalanches that are known to have reached the railroad grade. A ski
trail and the proposed access driveway to the Barker property cross the
lower portion of this path.
.~~___..-..J
._.j~C"eo aspen. This stand of
"ees, which is the proposed site of the new home, shows no sign of
avalanche damage for the life of the forest (approximately 80 years).
Site inspection showed some damage to aspen within the forest, but this
was apparently caused by an unusually heavy early June snowstorm in 1984.
This storm produced similar ~ideSpread damage throughout'central Colorado.
The avalanche conditions at this site were discussed in a detailed
report to Steve Crowley and Thomas D. ~1cAuley which was authored in 1973
by \~,hitney n. Borland and Hans Frutiger. In my opinion, the Borland/
Frutiger report was a thorough and accurate appraisal of the avalanche
conditions at this site. The present study discusses in greater detail
the nature of the risk involved in building within the potential avalanche
area.
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AND AVALANCHE HAZARD
Discussions and a site inspection with 11r. Jack Barker provided'
detailed information about the layout of the proposed development. The
development layout and building envelope is shown on the attached map.
The development is subject to avalanche hazard of 2 types:
1. hazard on the access driveway that crosses the open avalanche
path discussed above; and
2. hazard to the house, which will be built approximately 50 feet
east of the prominent avalanche path, within the timber wedge.
8ecause hazards "1" and "2" differ significantly, they are discussed
separately below.
The access driveway is clearly within the boundaries of the main
western avalanche path. Both upper and lower legs of the proposed
_' u'Oldncnes may have also reached
clle ori ve\~ay a 1 i gnment, but gone undetected. Although fi rm da ta on
avalanche frequency is not available, an average frequency (at the drive-
w~y) of 3-5 years seems reasonable, based on vegetation damage and the
sporadic and discontinuous historical record.
Overall risk is based on avalanche frequency and the proposed use of
drive\~ay. If we assume an exposure time (to the avalanche) of 1 minute
per trip' and 10 trips per day on the driveway, total daily exposure is
10 minutes (out of 1,440 minutes per day), or 0.7% of the time. If the
avalanche occurs once in every 3 years on the average, the joint proba-
bility, P, that an avalanche will reach someone while he is traveling
the driveway is computed
P = (4) (10/1440) = 0.23% per year.
. This calcul ahon assumes random avalanche occurrence and random drive\~ay
use. In other words, the prevailing avalanche and/or weather conditions
will have no influence on the use of the driveway.
From the standpoint of risk assessment, this 0.23% annual probability
should be compared with other risks that are commonly accepted. For
exa~ple, daily travel during unstable avalanche conditions is common on
Loveland, Berthoud, and Red Mountain passe~ each of which is crossed by
numerous avalanches every year. Some of these avalanches occur more often
than once per Year. Depending on the route taken through Colorado, the
avalanc'he hazard encountered on a trip to Aspen may exceed the risk..i.n
ascending the driveway.
. ~" v~~upled continuously, especially
during severe weather and avalanche conditions. Although the building
envelope is approximately 50 feet inside the timber wedge (east of the
avalanche path), it probably is exposed to avalanches of exceptional
volume because these will spread laterally as they descend and enter
the undisturbed forest. As a rough estimate, the building site could
be reached by avalanches with return periods of 50-100 years (1-2% annual
probability). A building located here and intended for winter occupancy
must be designed for avalanche impact and deposition loads. Final design
criteria should be developed in conjunction with building plans and
s,hould include:
1. Specification_of avalanche forces (resolved into mutually
perpendicular directions); and
2. Determination of loading criteria (static or impact).
None of these design parameters can be specified at present because
details of building size, shape, and orientation strongly control the
details of interaction with the structure. However, experience at many
ayalanche sites in North America and Europe indicates that construction
of an "avalanche-proof" structure is feasible at this location.
RECOMf1ENDA T1 ONS
The following recommendations consider the avalanche characteristics
and relative hazard as discussed above.
1. Avoid placement of permanent structures within the prominent
west avalanche path.
2. Allow residential construction within the timber wedge and
inside the building envelope as specified by Mr. Jack Barker
during our field inspection on December 16, 1986 (see attached
map) .
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..._,,~I'" rlsk is small when compared to the risk
accepted at many mountain sites (e.g.. Vail. Juneau, Ketchum, AHa).
the potential hazard should be carefully discussed with and understood
,
by future developers or owners of the site. They may reduce the risk
even further through learning about the nature and timing of avalanches.
.___.__..~_.__~__.__,_.--J
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