Cape Charles Zoning Board Approves Front Setback Variances for ‘Dreams by the Water’ Subdivision

CAPE CHARLES, Va. — The Cape Charles Board of Zoning Appeals has approved a series of front setback variance applications for the proposed “Dreams by the Water” subdivision on Washington Avenue. However, the board denied the requested variances for rear setbacks, citing zoning regulations and neighborhood compatibility concerns.

The variance requests were made under Section 2.6.3 and 2.6.4 of the Cape Charles Zoning Ordinance and applied to ten lots—Lots 1 through 10—identified as Tax Map Numbers 83A1-21-1 through 83A1-21-10. Each application sought a 10-foot reduction in both front and rear setback requirements as stipulated in Section 3.1(E) of the ordinance.

Note: Dreams by the Water is at the old Coast Guard lot off Washington Ave.

While the board approved the front setback reductions for all ten lots, it denied the 10-foot reductions requested for the rear setbacks.

The lots in question are conforming at 5,600 square feet each. However, they feature a more square-shaped configuration, differing from the town’s traditionally narrow and rectangular lots. This geometric difference was among the factors considered during the board’s deliberations.

The decision allows the subdivision to move forward with reduced front yard setbacks, enabling more flexible placement of homes on the lots.