Board allows temporary use of existing building for mosque services while permanent mosque is built

The Worcester County Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance on July 9 to allow temporary religious services in part of an existing building at 12008 Ocean Gateway while the applicant completes construction of a new mosque.

Attorney Spencer Cropper, representing the applicant, told the board the property was previously approved for a mosque and the new mosque’s construction has already begun. He said the variance would reduce the side‑yard setback from 20 feet to 10.5 feet to allow temporary use of an existing building (identified in application materials as a phase‑1 temporary mosque). “We already started … we have already the silk fence on the new proposed mosque … we’re looking within … a year and a half, 2 years to have it up and running if everything goes okay,” a representative said.

Staff noted a county permit (number 260350) issued March 30, 2026, authorizes weekly Friday services of 35–45 attendees with portable restrooms; staff also cautioned that, because of limited sewage reserve area, the temporary building will need to change use (for example to storage) once the permanent mosque has a certificate of occupancy. The board discussed parking availability and whether temporary parking on‑site met requirements.

After public comment and board discussion, the motion to allow the temporary use and associated setback variance passed with one member opposed. The board’s approval was framed as a temporary accommodation until the permanent mosque receives county approval and a certificate of occupancy.