Homeowners propose structure rebuild to improve property compliance in Little Pond

The Falmouth Zoning Board convened on November 21, 2024, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on a proposal for a residential property renovation. The applicants, who have owned the property for the past 12 years, are seeking to transform it into their primary residence, necessitating significant repairs and upgrades.

The board reviewed plans to raise and rebuild the existing structure. This proposal aims to eliminate the current nonconforming setback, improving it from 21.2 feet to 26 feet, while ensuring compliance with all other setback requirements. The lot coverage by structure is proposed at 24.1%, which is permissible under a special permit.

The existing bedroom count will remain at four, consistent with the allowances of the Little Pond Sewer District. The current ridge height of the structure is approximately 20 feet, with plans to increase it to 29 feet, 2 and 7/8 inches, which is still below the maximum allowable height of 35 feet.

Despite the improvements, the project requires a special permit under sections 240-10.2(a) and 11.3(a)(4) of the zoning regulations. The board discussed the criteria for granting such permits, emphasizing that changes to pre-existing nonconforming structures must not be substantially more detrimental than the existing conditions. The board noted that the proposed alterations do not create new dimensional nonconformities and actually eliminate the existing nonconformity.

In conclusion, the board's discussions highlighted the careful consideration of neighborhood standards and the potential impact of the proposed renovations. The next steps will involve further review of the application to ensure compliance with all zoning regulations before a final decision is made.