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ZBA approves special exception and variance to restore accessory dwelling at 117 Ridge Road
Summary
The board granted a special exception to allow an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in the existing basement and a variance to exceed the 750‑square‑foot ADU size limit after finding the unit had long been in place and restoration would not harm the neighborhood.
The Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved both a special exception and a variance April 22 to restore an accessory dwelling unit in the basement of a home at 117 Ridge Road.
Contractor and applicant Eric Perrin said the home suffered a fire that damaged the finished basement and that the owner wants to restore the ADU to its prior condition. The board reviewed a special‑exception request under Land Use Code section 190‑15 (to permit an ADU) and a variance under section 190‑32(b)(1) to exceed the 750‑square‑foot maximum (applicant reported the restored ADU would be about 1,050 square feet).
Perrin and other speakers told the board the basement unit had existed for decades and that the restoration is effectively returning the home to its prior configuration. Chair Jay Mencar noted the owner has been displaced and living in a hotel for six months. Board members found the proposed use would not create undue traffic, would not overload municipal systems, and would be consistent with neighborhood character. The board granted the variance and the special exception, subject to the ADU affidavit signed by the owner and the customary 30‑day appeal period.
Board members emphasized the relief restores a long‑standing condition rather than creates a new intensification of use.
