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Board grants variance for retaining wall at 58 Murray Hill Road
Summary
The Zoning Board approved a variance for a retaining wall and yard regrading at 58 Murray Hill Road, citing the lot's unusual shape and topography; approval was unanimous with conditions discussed regarding distance from a nearby drainage feature.
The Malden Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variance on June 18 to allow a retaining wall and partial yard regrading at 58 Murray Hill Road.
Contractor John Luther told the board the homeowner wants a small retaining wall to create a level area in a backyard currently described as a "big gully" left by a collapsed shed. "He wants to build a little retaining wall... so that he'd be able to use the yard," Luther said.
Board and staff discussed how the wall is classified under the zoning code as an accessory structure requiring a permit and therefore subject to accessory-structure setbacks (three feet, not six, for this size). Nelson, a city staff member, confirmed the wall qualifies as a structure that requires a three-foot setback from the lot line and explained the zoning classification to the board.
Commissioner King moved to approve the variance, and a second was recorded; the board voted unanimously to grant petition 25-007. Members said the lot's irregular shape and topography, and the desire to avoid constructing a much taller wall that would require more engineering, supported the variance. The board noted the work will remain well inside the drainage pipe location and that the conservation commission considerations are separate.
The board's approval included conditions discussed at the hearing related to staying clear of the drainage outlet and referring to standard building and permitting review by city staff.
