Hooksett ZBA grants side-setback relief for 192 Brookview Drive ADU and 10x10 screened porch

Hooksett — The Hooksett Zoning Board of Adjustment voted to approve a variance to permit a 10-by-10 screened porch and associated overhang to encroach into the side setback at 192 Brookview Drive, reducing the side setback to 12 feet where a 15-foot side setback was set under the subdivision’s approved plan. The motion passed unanimously.

Why it matters: the variance enables construction of an attached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) with an exterior entrance that the homeowners say will provide safer, easier access for an elderly parent and a potential future wheelchair ramp. The ADU itself (a 24-by-30 attached unit) complies with town and state ADU rules; the variance applied only to the screened porch and minor roof overhang that would project into the side setback that governs this conservation subdivision.

Project details and justification Homeowners Peter and Caroline Meagan explained the proposed ADU design to the board and said the ADU is intended for Caroline’s 88‑year‑old mother, who plans to sell her Berryhill residence and move into the ADU. The ADU footprint is 24 by 30 feet and will attach to the back of the garage; the proposed 10-by-10 screened porch provides a primary external entrance to the ADU and allows space for a 36-inch door and future ramp if needed.

The applicants explained the neighborhood context: Brookview is a conservation subdivision with tighter side setbacks than standard MDR zoning; the subdivision plan approved by the planning board established a 15-foot side setback for the lot in question. Because the lot is a separate record lot (not a condo-style interior unit), the applicant sought a variance from the subdivision’s approved setbacks rather than from the underlying MDR district.

Approvals and conditions The board found the variance would not alter neighborhood character, would provide for safe access to an ADU for an elderly resident, and would not diminish surrounding property values. The homeowners submitted an HOA letter confirming the association’s consent. The board recorded findings that the request met the variance standards for substantial justice and hardship (noting the conservation subdivision’s tighter setbacks and lot configuration as the special condition). The motion to approve was made and carried with all members voting aye.

Who spoke (selected) Applicants: Peter and Caroline Meagan. Town staff (Dana) participated in the discussion and confirmed the subdivision/setback background and the need to reference the conservation subdivision standard. No members of the public spoke in opposition; the applicants provided a written HOA approval.

Next steps Applicants may proceed to building-permit application and final construction plans, subject to the building inspector’s review and any required inspections. The board’s variance applies only to the side-setback relief recorded in this decision; any future changes to the ADU, porch footprint, or ramping would require separate permitting or additional variance action if they exceed the approved dimensions.