The Saskatoon development appeals board upheld regulations regarding a house in the city’s Nutana neighborhood that exceeded height limits. The board’s decision, released recently, emphasized that relaxing the standards for the house would go against the zoning bylaw’s purpose.
This three-story property on University Drive, valued at $1.6 million, surpasses the maximum height permitted for homes in established neighborhoods by 1.4 meters and is also wider than allowed. Violations were discovered during an inspection when the house was nearly finished in May, prompting the city to issue a stop work order.
The current owners, Curtis and Rachelle Kelln, who acquired the property from the late developer Karl Miller’s estate a year ago, claimed they were unaware of the size restrictions. City officials were also unaware of the violation, despite multiple inspections during the construction process.
Jonathan Naylor, president of the Varsity View Community Association, expressed understanding for the owners’ situation but supported the board’s decision. Naylor highlighted the importance of regulations preventing excessively large houses, which can have negative impacts on neighboring properties.
Although pleased with the ruling, Naylor raised questions about the oversight by the previous owner and city inspectors. Douglas Tompson, a neighbor, also supported the decision but felt some issues were left unaddressed.
Speculation arose that the matter might escalate to the courts due to its complexity. The Kellns have the option to appeal the board’s decision to the Saskatchewan Municipal Board within the next 30 days. They refrained from commenting on their next steps, considering the potential challenges and costs involved in altering the house’s structure.