Zoning board approves dormer and storage over garage at South Livingston Avenue with revised porch condition

The board voted to permit a dormer and storage space above the garage at 423 South Livingston Avenue, granting a modest habitable‑floor‑area variance to allow the space to be finished and accessed from the master bedroom. Engineer/planner testimony emphasized the proposal did not alter the footprint or exceed height limits and that the change improves the street facade.

The applicant’s professionals said the storage space is about 268 square feet and is accessed only from the master bedroom, making it unlikely to function as an additional bedroom. The board accepted evidence that the addition improves aesthetic continuity on the Plymouth Drive frontage and that building coverage and height remain within acceptable limits for the lot.

A prior condition requiring a safety railing along a porch was removed by the board after testimony that the porch grade would be raised and the porch lowered so there would be no step requiring a railing; the removal of that condition was made contingent on final plans showing the grade adjustments.