Saratoga Springs ZBA extends two variances, OKs signage for preservation group and approves variances for new Fila Street house

Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals members on Monday approved extension requests for two previously granted area variances, permitted two temporary signs for a preservation nonprofit at 128–130 Clinton Street and approved multiple variances needed to construct a single-family home at 81 Fila Street. Several other applications were continued for additional documentation.

The board approved an 18-month extension of the area variance for 138 Jefferson Avenue, allowing an existing garage to remain in its current location until June 18, 2026, unless a required building permit is issued and construction begun. Joanne Merriman, the property owner, told the board she has a building-permit application in and sought the extension because the city’s building department could not inspect the work before the original variance expired.

Why it matters: Extensions preserve previously granted relief while applicants complete permitting. Without an extension, property owners risk enforcement action if a required variance lapses before inspections or permits are obtained.

The board also extended an area variance originally granted to permit a recreation court at 64 Dyer Switch Road. Lisa Kelly, speaking for the applicant, said personal circumstances and caregiver responsibilities delayed…