Development News for Spearfish, South Dakota

Board of Adjustments Grants Variance for Gas Station Rear Setback Reduction

The Board of Adjustments considered a variance request to reduce the required rear yard setback from 10 feet to 5 feet for the reconstruction of a gas station at 2615 Colorado Avenue. The applicant, Brandon Ginter, argued that special physical conditions, including adjacent structures with minimal setbacks, created an unusual hardship and necessitated the variance for reasonable use and a safer layout. Staff recommended denial, citing that the variance criteria were not fully met, particularly regarding special physical conditions. The planning commission also recommended denial. After public hearing and discussion among board members regarding fire safety and adjacent property impacts, the motion to grant the variance was made, seconded, and ultimately carried.