21 Century Setbacks for 20th Century Properties

The March 25 Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Agenda included requests for variances where current Zoning Code requirements call for setback distances from property lines which are basically incompatible with the subdivisions of property that were created decades ago - requiring homeowners to request variances.

Public Hearings

• An application for a property of .4 acres on Chelsea Road requested a variance of 11 feet from a side yard property line to expand a garage to enabled a second bay to be built, allowing for safer, off-the street parking. - Approved.

• An application on Lake Oniad Drive on 1.1 acres for a 9' 3" left property line variance to enable a Replacement Deck to be built. - Approved.

Discussion

• An Application for a.35 acre property on Peggy Lane for an 18' above ground pool. The placement of the septic and a storm easement make the proposed site the only feasible location for a pool. The request is for a 17' variance to the left property line, where 25 feet is required. Public Hearing set for April 8th.

• Two Variances are requested for a property on O'Neil Farm Lane, which because it is a corner lot, is viewed as having two front yards, thus needing a variance from the zoning code which states that no fence over 4 feet in height is allowed in a front yard, to enable a 6 foot fence to remain installed. Also, where no accessory structures is permitted in a front yard, a variance is needed to enable a 10x12 shed to remain. Public Hearing set for April 8th.

• A variance of 16 feet, where 40 feet are required, is requested to allow a screened in porch to be built on Diddell Road on 1.65 acres. Public Hearing set for April 8th.

Please note that the Zoning Board makes site visits after the initial discussion to help them form their opinion. It is refreshing to note that a least 1 board member does prep work and displays an awareness of the properties and their surroundings during the initial discussion - something that is not apparent among several of the Planningn Board members.