Brookline ZBA approves modest rear addition at 6 York Terrace

The Town of Brookline Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously granted a finding to allow a rear addition and basement conversion at 6 York Terrace that slightly increases a preexisting nonconforming floor-area ratio (FAR).

Counsel for the applicant, Robert Allen, told the board the work will create a 71-square-foot rear bump-out and convert basement space for grandparents living in the house; the proposed FAR would rise from 0.50 to 0.52 (maximum allowed 0.35). Planning staff and the Planning Board recommended approval; the building department said it had no objections. Board members Johanna Schneider and Saul Feldman recorded unanimous support and found no substantial detriment to the neighborhood under the applicable finding standard.

Allen described the proposal as an intergenerational use that preserves the streetscape and creates no new nonconformities to lot size or front-yard setback. Planning staff noted a nearby tree of concern and recommended that, should the amended tree-protection bylaw go into effect before issuance of a building permit, a tree-protection plan be submitted. The board included that as a condition if the bylaw is in effect at permit review.

The board’s decision directs the applicant to submit final, stamped plans for review prior to building-permit issuance and to record the board decision at the registry of deeds.