Nashua Zoning Board unanimously approves six variances, from front porches to a 2→3 unit conversion

The City of Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved six variance requests at its Oct. 8 meeting, granting exceptions ranging from front‑yard encroachments to a change of use for a small business.

The board, chaired by Rob Shaw, heard six cases and acted on each after public testimony and brief member discussion. Shaw reminded applicants that each decision is subject to a 30‑day rehearing or appeal period.

The most frequent relief granted involved dimensional setbacks. In Case 1 the board approved a variance to allow a 12‑foot‑6‑inch by 36‑foot front porch to encroach 6 feet, 6 inches into the 30‑foot front‑yard setback at 3 Sandstone Drive. Applicant Ram Narayan Swamy said the porch would "bring up the aesthetics of the house" and provide usable outdoor space; members noted the house sits unusually far forward on its lot and that similar porches are common on the block. The motion to approve carried unanimously.

In Case 2…