26-08 Deerwood VariancePlanning Case #2026-08
6691 Deerwood Drive
Planning Commission –June 2, 2026
Applicant: Alexander Design Group
Owner: Colin Ambrose
Requesting a variance from a front yard setback to
construct an addition to the existing home.
Location: 6691 Deerwood Drive
Zoning:
•Residential Single-Family (RSF)
Land Use:
•Low Density Residential
Lot Attributes:
•0.28 acres
•Roughly half the property is
delineated bluff.
Proposed Addition
= Delineated Bluff
= Bluff Setback Line
= Existing Home
= Proposed Addition
Proposed Front Setback
•Existing home setback: 1’ 9”
•Requested setback: 20’
•Required setback: 30’
Proposed Addition
Variance Criteria
1.Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and
intent of this chapter and when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.
2.When there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. "Practical
difficulties," as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property
owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by this chapter.
Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar
energy systems.
3.That the purpose of the variation is not based upon economic considerations alone.
4.The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the
landowner.
5.The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.
6.Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in M.S. § 216C.06, subd.
14, when in harmony with this chapter.
Planning Commission
Discussion
Public Hearing
Planning Commission
Discussion
Proposed Motion
“The Chanhassen Board of Appeals and
Adjustments approves the requested front
yard setback variance and adopts the
attached Findings of Facts and Decision.”