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ZBA approves roof-raise variance for 128 Lily Ave to finish attic space
Summary
On Sept. 9 the City of Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance allowing the owner of 128 Lily Ave to raise the roof and finish attic space, with board members emphasizing the addition cannot be converted to a separate apartment.
The City of Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 9 approved a variance allowing changes to the roofline at 128 Lily Ave so the owner can finish attic space.
The variance grants relief from Section 5.1 of the zoning ordinance for maximum height and maximum stories to permit the attic conversion. The board approved the petition by roll call vote.
Board members said the work should not be used to create a separate dwelling. “The applicant should know that the addition cannot be used as an additional apartment unit,” Member McCarthy said during deliberations. Member Prokop raised parking as a potential concern but accepted the applicant’s statement that the property will remain a single-family dwelling. The applicant’s representative said the work will keep the current two-bedroom layout while raising the ceiling to create usable attic rooms for a growing family.
The applicant requested relief only for height and stories; staff noted no variance for floor area was required. No members of the public spoke in opposition or support during the hearing. Member McCarthy made the motion to approve the variance; Member Prokop seconded. The board’s roll call recorded: Chairman Peck, Vice Chair Callahan, Member McCarthy, Member Hovey and Member Prokop—all voting to approve.
The board did not attach additional conditions beyond the standard permit review; members reiterated that any future conversion to a second dwelling would require a return to the board for additional variances and review.
