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Board grants setback variance for basement egress at 20 Seventh Street
Summary
The Zoning Board granted a variance allowing a 5-by-5 roofed basement entrance to encroach up to 6.7 feet into the front setback on North Groton Street (RB zone, Ward 4). The board cited neighborhood precedent and safety/egress reasons.
The Zoning Board of Adjustment granted a variance on Oct. 12 to allow a recently constructed 5‑by‑5 roofed basement entrance at 20 Seventh Street to encroach up to 6.7 feet into the required 10‑foot front yard setback on North Groton Street (RB zone, Ward 4).
Applicant Mario Pena told the board the entrance was installed during foundation work after a failing foundation was replaced; he said the opening was created to move equipment and was then fitted with a door for safety and egress. “I just kind of want this for, I have 2 daughters and, just more for safety, just be able to get out of the basement,” Pena said.
Neighbors spoke in favor. John Crowley, who said he lives on Seventh Street, said the property had been substantially improved and supported approval. Board members discussed that the case was “after the fact” but agreed the entrance would likely have been approved if proposed in advance, citing neighborhood precedents and corner‑lot geometry. The board found the variance met the five statutory criteria, including hardship based on lot shape and existing building placement.
Josh Neely moved to approve the variance; Steve Lionel seconded. The board voted to approve the variance; the chair advised there is a 30‑day appeal period and suggested contacting planning staff with questions.
Approval allows the existing roofed entrance to remain as constructed; the board did not add further conditions in the hearing record.
