Norwalk orders owner to revert illegal attic unit to two‑family; case continued to April

Zoning staff and the hearing officer reviewed a repeat violation concerning an attic apartment that the city says was previously required to be removed. The owners, who live in Florida, have been represented by their son in prior matters; the owner did not attend the Jan. 29 hearing.

Staff said the attic unit is an unpermitted unit in a two‑family zone and that the property had been told previously it could not operate as a three‑family dwelling. The hearing record shows the owner confirmed by email and phone contact that he understands what must be done and expects to submit plans. Olbers said the city will allow time for plans and partial work but continued the matter to April 16, 2025 to allow the owner to revert the unit and to avoid immediate escalation to a large fine in the short term.

Olbers estimated the maximum accumulated fines if unresolved by the April date could be substantial (staff cited an estimate of roughly $23,000 if left unremedied until April), but also told the owner by email that removal of appliances and minor changes could resolve the zoning violation without major structural work. "We'll give you a little extra time, have it all done, have the work done, have it reverted to a 2 family," Olbers said in discussion of the compliance timeline.

The hearing officer directed staff to request floor plans and to monitor progress; the case was continued to the April 16 hearing roster for confirmation of compliance.