Zoning board grants 72-sq-ft variance for garage at 670 Craig Road

The Town of Lincoln Zoning Board of Review voted to approve a dimensional variance for a detached garage at 670 Craig Road owned by town resident Richard Derosha. The board granted approximately 72 square feet of additional floor area, which brings the structure to an estimated 552 square feet and requires roughly 18.75 feet of relief from the 25-foot side-yard setback.

"We find that the hardship is due to the unique characteristics of the land," said a committee member who moved the variance, describing steep slope and property constraints that limit alternative siting on the lot. The motion, which cited the four variance standards read into the record, was seconded and approved by voice vote.

During testimony the applicant said the existing garage measures under 500 square feet and that the proposed expansion would exceed that threshold by about 72 square feet, triggering the need for relief. He told the board he has owned the house approximately 18–20 years, that the garage has a concrete foundation likely dating to the early 20th century, and that repeated door damage and narrow openings affect his ability to store and protect vehicles.

The chair read the Planning Board and Technical Review Committee notes into the record; the Planning Board met Aug. 13, 2026 and voted 6–0 to forward a positive recommendation, finding the proposed addition consistent with surrounding properties. With no members of the public present to speak on the application, the board approved the variance and instructed the applicant he may proceed with the project under the usual permitting processes.

The board's approval was recorded in a voice vote and the chair announced the variance had passed. The applicant was permitted to continue with construction steps subject to any building permits and inspections required by town regulations.