Concord ZBA unanimously grants setback variance for small screened porch at 2 Otter Drive

The Concord Zoning Board of Adjustment on a voice vote unanimously granted a variance that will allow a screened porch to be built 5 feet from a side property line at 2 Otter Drive, where the zoning ordinance requires a 15-foot side setback.

During the hearing the board accepted testimony from Bridal Washburn, who said the proposed porch is a modest addition consistent with neighborhood character and noted the house sits at an angle on a corner lot, narrowing usable side-yard area. Washburn and the board discussed how two fronting streets affect setback classifications on corner lots.

Board members said the location and layout of the house on the lot create a hardship that justifies relief. Several members noted there is no other reasonable place on the lot to add the porch without imposing a greater burden on the owner. Citing RSA 674:33 and the record before the board, a member moved to grant the variance and adopt the applicant’s proposed findings; another board member seconded and the motion carried unanimously.

No one spoke in opposition and there were no conditions attached to the approval. The board moved on to other agenda items after announcing the variance was granted.