Zoning board grants variance limiting ADU to 1,600 sq ft, requires basements/attics remain unfinished

The New Ipswich Zoning Board voted to grant a variance that limits finished living area for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to no more than 1,600 square feet and requires that basements and attic/above-garage areas remain unfinished. The board made the decision after a public session and a deliberative review of the variance criteria.

Applicant materials and a presenter described the request as an increase above the town's by-right ADU allowance, arguing the extra space is needed to accommodate wheelchair access and aging-in-place features. "The additional size allows for a floor plan that can accommodate wheelchairs and easier movement," the presenter said, framing the change as an accessibility and long-term-housing measure.

Several board members questioned how attic or garage areas might be converted and whether unfinished basements should count as living space; the board relied on the ordinance language distinguishing living space from unheated/unfinished areas. A member summarized the board's role: approvals are decided on a case-by-case basis and do not automatically create town-wide precedent.

During deliberation the board discussed likely grading changes that would eliminate a proposed walkout basement; members said those site adjustments made the 1,600-square-foot limit and the unfinished-basement condition appropriate. A motion to grant the variance with conditions was made, seconded and approved by voice vote.

The applicant withdrew the separate special-exception request after the board confirmed conditions on finished living area. The board directed staff to follow up with the assessor and permitting offices to confirm related permit history.

The board closed the meeting after adjournment was moved and seconded.