Zoning Board approves basement accessory dwelling unit at 53 Legacy Drive

The Zoning Board of Adjustment on May 13 approved a special exception to allow an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in the basement of a single-family home at 53 Legacy Drive in Ward 9.

The board found the proposed in-law apartment met the special-exception standards in the land use code and unanimously voted to approve the application. The board chair reminded the applicants there is a 30-day window for appeals.

Applicant Brian Sullivan, the general contractor representing the property owners, told the board the project will convert basement space into an in-law apartment to provide space for family members who visit from China. “We’re putting in our apartment in the basement,” Sullivan said. Sullivan said the required affidavit was filed and that the application met the criteria listed in the application.

Board members asked practical questions about the property. Vice Chair Josh Neely asked whether the two garage doors remain usable so vehicles would not need to park on the street; Sullivan answered affirmatively. Member Robert Shaw confirmed external modifications shown on the drawings, including a side slider door, and described the application as “very straightforward.”

After discussion Shaw moved to approve the special exception for the owners as listed in the record; the motion was seconded and the board voted unanimously to grant the special exception. The chair noted approval is subject to the 30-day appeal period before the decision is final.

Discussion (record): testimony from the applicant and brief board questions about parking and exterior changes. Decision: special exception approved; 30-day appeal period applies.

This case was taken during the board’s May 13 meeting; the board followed its standard order of business for special-exception hearings and moved directly from public testimony to deliberation and a vote.