ZBA grants small setback variance for freestanding sign at 51 Antrim Avenue
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Summary
A freestanding sign that was installed with earlier approvals was found within the five-foot front-property-line setback; the ZBA granted a variance to allow the existing sign to remain in place.
The Concord Zoning Board of Adjustment granted a variance to allow a 135-square-foot freestanding sign to remain closer than five feet to the front property line at 51 Antrim Avenue in the industrial district.
Sasha Messenger of Advantage Signs explained that a prior sign permit issued in 2021 for Eastern Analytical allowed installation set ‘‘two feet back from the base of the curb’’ and the sign has been in place since then. When the property changed ownership and the new owner sought to update the sign face, staff determined the freestanding sign was approximately 21 inches inside the five-foot front-property-line setback.
Board members noted the sign was longstanding, the site geometry (detached sidewalk and curb alignment) makes the measured setback different from the perceived street edge, and moving the sign would conflict with underground utilities and parking spaces. The board found hardship in the existing installation and street geometry, and a motion to grant the variance passed unanimously.
The board’s approval permits the existing freestanding sign to remain; it did not record additional conditions beyond standard permit and design review requirements.