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Zoning board grants special exception for detached garage at 26 High Street
Summary
The board approved a special exception allowing Charles Barker to build a detached garage two feet from a side property line on a preexisting nonconforming lot; abutters provided a written letter of support.
The Plymouth Zoning Board approved a special exception for construction of a detached garage at 26 High Street, allowing the garage to sit two feet from the side property line where a 10-foot setback is normally required.
Charles Barker, the applicant, told the board he intends to place the garage at the end of his driveway and to match the house’s historic appearance; Barker said he had discussed the plan with immediate neighbors, and the board received a letter of support from abutters identified as the Batch Elders. Barker told the board he is “just putting in a residential garage at the end of my driveway,” and he described the planned structure as a monolithic (Alaskan) slab with similar trim and roof pitch to the house.
Board members found the lot to be a preexisting nonconforming parcel and noted that several nearby lots and structures do not meet current zoning geometry. Members said the proposed garage would not create additional residential living space and would not require new town services. The board recorded findings that the garage is a reasonable accessory use on the lot and that the location proposed is appropriate given the lot’s shape and size.
Board members asked clarifying questions on utilities and future use: Barker said he plans to trench for electrical conduit and later wire the garage to his house panel; he said he did not plan to install water and does not intend to create a separate dwelling unit or other residential use in the garage. The board also reviewed that the applicant had engaged neighbors before filing and that the nearest abutter provided written support.
After findings of fact were accepted, the board moved to approve the special exception. A notice of decision will be drafted and mailed to the applicant outlining the decision and any conditions.
Votes at a glance: The zoning board voted to approve the special exception permitting the detached garage at 26 High Street to be sited two feet from the side property line; the motion carried.
