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Rangeley zoning board grants variance for narrow lot in case 773 after shoreland review
Summary
The Rangeley Zoning Board of Appeals approved a setback variance for application identified as case 773, finding that the small, irregular lot met Chapter 38 criteria and that shoreland protections would not be harmed; approval is subject to building-permit review.
The Rangeley Zoning Board of Appeals granted a setback variance for an application identified as case 773, concluding that the unusual lot shape and limited space justified relief under local zoning law. Staff and the applicant’s representative told the board that abutters had provided written consent and that measures such as French drains had been installed to address drainage concerns.
Board members read the statutory criteria in Chapter 38, focusing on whether the lot could yield reasonable return without a variance, whether the hardship stemmed from unique property circumstances, and whether the variance would alter neighborhood character. Members said the narrow/trapezoid geometry of the lot made alternatives infeasible and that granting the variance would not increase lot coverage beyond allowable limits.
Because the property lies in a shoreland zone, the board also assessed criteria under section 38-7-6, including potential damage to wildlife or habitat, conservation of shoreland vegetation, preservation of public points of access to the water, and erosion control. Staff (S5) noted drainage and mitigation measures and the board concluded the application did not create unreasonable environmental harm.
The board moved and voted to grant the variance without recording additional conditions on the variance itself, while noting that issuance of the building permit and code-enforcement review remain required steps before construction begins. The board adjourned after completing this and other business.
