Peabody board approves ADU at 29 Lynn St., requires updated plot plan

The Peabody Board of Appeals on Dec. 15 approved variances to allow a 1½‑story accessory dwelling unit at 29 Lynn Street for Paul J. and Shanna McDonald, contingent on an updated plot plan to show removal of a pool, patio and shed, and to locate driveway and stair access.

The application sought relief from multiple dimensional requirements in the R1A district: lot coverage of 31.2 percent where 30 percent is allowed, left and right side yards of approximately 12.5 feet where 15 feet are required, and a rear yard of about 21.9 feet where 35 feet are required. The applicant told the board the ADU would ultimately allow a family member to live on the property while the owners renovate the main house.

"The pool is gone," applicant Shanna McDonald said when questioned about existing site conditions, noting the patio and shed would also be removed as part of the project. A member of the public raised concerns that the professional plot plan on file still showed the pool and omitted the proposed driveway and stair locations; that participant urged the board to require a corrected plan because the plan becomes the official record.

An unidentified board member moved to approve the application on the condition that the plot plan be updated to the satisfaction of the board and the building department to show removal of the pool, patio and shed; to show driveway location and any entries and stairways; and to include a prohibition on subdivision of the lot. The board closed the public hearing and approved the motion in a roll‑call vote; the chair announced the application had been approved.

The board reminded parties that decisions are filed with the city clerk and are subject to a 20‑day appeal period. The next regular Board of Appeals meeting is scheduled for Jan. 26.