Planning board approves setback variances for addition at 22 Hickory Way over concerns about accessory office

The Stamford City Planning Board voted to recommend approval of ZBA 029‑25, an application to allow a second‑story addition over an existing garage at 22 Hickory Way, forwarding the approval to the Zoning Board of Appeals under the usual referral process. The vote recorded three in favor and one abstention.

Staff told the board the property sits in the Residential‑1 (R‑10) district and that the existing house is legally nonconforming for front and side yard setbacks; the requested variances would allow an addition built within the existing footprint and flush with the home’s current face. The three variances cited in the record were a 33.1‑foot front yard setback in lieu of 40 feet, a 58.1‑foot street‑center setback in lieu of 65 feet, and a 9.7‑foot side yard setback in lieu of 10 feet.

Several members pressed whether a first‑floor space labeled as an office — shown with what appears to be independent exterior access on the plans — would constitute an accessory commercial use and whether that would be permitted. Staff said professional accessory offices are allowed in the R‑10 district but that zoning enforcement would confirm whether the specific design and access would require separate review or a waiver.

Ravi moved to approve the referral; the chair seconded to move the item forward. Bill said he would abstain because he remained uncertain about the office configuration. The motion carried 3–0–1.

Next steps: the planning board’s recommendation will go to the ZBA and zoning enforcement will follow up on questions about the proposed accessory office and exterior access.