Rome ZBA approves front-yard deck variance for West Liberty Street home

The City of Rome Zoning Board of Appeals on Dec. 3 approved an area variance allowing a 6-foot by 6-foot open-air deck in the front yard at 928 West Liberty Street, a location where decks are prohibited under the zoning code.

Bruce Hopkins, speaking for property owner Melissa Hopkins, said the house’s existing 3-by-4-foot stoop is failing and the proposed deck, with three steps, would improve functionality for moving items and for daily access. He told the board the owner would accept a somewhat smaller deck if required.

The chair read the five area-variance standards into the record. No members of the public spoke on the item. The Oneida County Department of Planning’s memo dated Nov. 12, 2025, is recorded in the file with no recommendation on final action. Board members asked about orientation and dimensions and then individually stated support and voted to approve the variance. The chair reminded the applicant to contact Mark Domenico in the codes office for permits before beginning work.

The transcript does not show conditions attached to the approval; the record indicates the owner and representative will coordinate on design and permits with city staff.