Board of Adjustment (In-Person) (Feb 23, 2026)

Asheville Board of Adjustment Meeting Recap: February 23, 2026

On February 23, 2026, the City of Asheville Board of Adjustment (BOA) convened an in-person meeting to address a range of zoning and flood regulation matters. The meeting, held at City Hall, focused primarily on reviewing and deciding upon variance requests from the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), demonstrating a commitment to carefully balancing property owner needs with broader community interests.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to evidentiary hearings and variance decisions. The Board unanimously approved a crucial flood variance for 30 Lodge Street, allowing repairs to the historic Wayside Bar and Grill without fully complying with current flood protection standards. Staff emphasized that this decision was vital to preserving the building’s historic character, and highlighted the collaborative efforts between the applicant and city staff to ensure ongoing compliance. The Board also approved a motion to postpone an administrative appeal for 17 North Market Street, allowing time for the applicant and city officials to reach an agreement on a hearing date. Notably, after considerable discussion, the Board declined a rehearing request for 5 White Avenue, finding no new information to warrant revisiting their previous decision. Finally, a variance was unanimously approved for 57 Craggy Avenue, permitting a minimal disturbance necessary to install a septic system due to unique property topography and denial of sewer connection.

During the hearing for 5 White Avenue, local engineer David Moritz provided testimony emphasizing the historical context of the area and limitations imposed by current zoning regulations. This highlighted a recurring theme throughout the meeting: the complexities of navigating Asheville’s established neighborhoods and their unique property configurations. The Board repeatedly underscored its commitment to adhering to state law and city ordinances, acknowledging the challenges of balancing historic preservation with modern regulations – a particularly relevant point given discussions surrounding flood protection in areas like Biltmore Village.

Beyond the variance decisions, the meeting also addressed routine business. The Board approved minutes from their November 2025 meeting, adopted updated Rules of Procedure (clarifying the transition from Board Secretary to Staff Liaison), and elected James Warnall as their new Vice Chair. These procedural updates ensure the Board operates efficiently and transparently, aligning with best practices for local governance.

Looking ahead, several action items were identified. City staff will continue to work with the applicant at 30 Lodge Street to ensure ongoing compliance, and efforts are underway to reschedule the administrative appeal for 17 North Market Street. The Board also acknowledged a need for continued communication and coordination regarding septic system regulations, particularly in areas with steep slopes.

This meeting underscored the Board of Adjustment’s vital role in Asheville's development process, navigating complex zoning challenges while upholding city ordinances. For residents, this means a continued focus on balancing preservation of historic character with modern regulations and ensuring fair consideration for property owners seeking variances within established neighborhoods. The next meeting of the Board is scheduled to be announced on www.ashevillenc.gov/boa, and residents are encouraged to visit the site for updates and information on upcoming agenda items.