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Zoning board approves special permit for 66 Highland Ave addition with conditions
Summary
The Town of Falmouth Zoning Board granted a special permit to Grama Bear LLC for a second‑floor addition and modest increase in lot coverage at 66 Highland Ave, approving conditions addressing stormwater, a stone wall in the right‑of‑way, and coordination on construction logistics.
The Town of Falmouth Zoning Board of Appeals voted to grant a special permit to Grama Bear LLC for alterations at 66 Highland Avenue in North Falmouth that increase lot coverage and add a bedroom. Kevin Clauer, attorney for the applicant, requested permits under the zoning bylaw to raise existing nonconformities and to exceed 20% lot coverage where allowed by special permit.
Clauer told the board the project keeps the same nonconforming setbacks but includes a new septic system designed to accommodate a denitrification/advanced system later if required. ‘‘The new system was designed to accommodate a denitrification system at a later date,’’ Clauer said, noting the plan includes dry wells and a driveway catch basin to reduce stormwater runoff.
A neighbor, David Hines of 74 Highland, spoke in favor: ‘‘I ask that you approve it, it looks good,’’ he said. Engineering, the board of health and conservation comments were considered; the building and water departments suggested service upgrades and noted septic changes because the house will increase from three to four bedrooms.
Board members discussed conditions including work‑hour limits, verification of a stone wall that may lie in the public right‑of‑way (the applicant must verify and, if necessary, seek a license from the Select Board), and coordination with police for construction‑related parking and traffic. The board closed the hearing, made findings under the relevant sections of the bylaw and voted in favor of approving the proposed conditions by voice vote.
The board’s file records that lot coverage by structure will increase from about 17.9% to 20.5% and total coverage by structure/paving/parking will remain below the bylaw’s 40% threshold. Minutes note the new septic system is being sized to allow a denitrification upgrade if required in future Board of Health actions.
The decision concludes the board’s review of application 8624; the permit was approved with the stated conditions and findings.
