ZBA unanimously approves two homeowner variances for porch and one‑story addition

At its September meeting the Stratford Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved two homeowner variance requests: a small front‑setback variance for a covered porch at 150 Reigate Terrace (petition of Christopher and Courtney Pia), and a front‑setback variance to allow a one‑story bedroom and bathroom addition at 516 Valley Road (petition of James Dunlap).

Christopher Pia told the board he and his wife Courtney bought the Cape‑style house in 2016 and want a small covered porch for everyday use; the applicant said a preexisting in‑law apartment (installed before his purchase) will be removed and that the proposed porch represents minimum relief. Architect Dan (on the record) confirmed the requested relief is roughly 34–36 inches beyond the setback. “Courtney would love to have a little porch to drink her tea in the morning on and wave at the neighbors,” Pia said.

James Dunlap and other petitioners explained the existing covered porch had rotted framing and that the work will replace the enclosed porch with a foundation and a one‑story bedroom and bath to keep living on one level for accessibility. Board members noted the Dunlap house dates to 1917 and described both petitions as minimal relief that would reduce nonconformities.

Both motions to approve were seconded and carried unanimously; the board emphasized that any construction will require standard building permits and must comply with building code and structural review before work begins.