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Nashua Zoning Board approves 36-foot driveway curb cut for Whitman Road home
Summary
The Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously granted a variance Sept. 24 to allow a 36-foot curb cut at 3 Whitman Road for a three-car garage, finding site constraints and neighborhood precedents supported the change; a 30-day appeal period applies.
The City of Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment on Sept. 24 approved a variance to allow a 36-foot driveway curb cut at 3 Whitman Road, permitting a three-car garage where code limits curb cuts to 24 feet.
Bert Cohen, who said he and his wife Barbara are building the house, told the board the wider curb cut would allow "straight entry and exit from both garage stalls," and that several neighboring properties already have similar three-car garages. He said the wider paved approach would reduce awkward turning, protect the new garage and prevent damage to lawn areas.
Board members questioned sight lines and neighborhood character but repeatedly noted the proposed house is set forward on the lot, limiting options for a narrower driveway. "If we did the flare, it would look relatively unnatural," one member said, referencing the alternative of expanding the driveway laterally to comply with the 24-foot curb cut.
The board found the applicant met the variance criteria, citing special conditions of the lot, comparability with nearby properties and minimal impact on surrounding values. A motion to approve passed unanimously, 5–0. Chair Rob Shaw reminded applicants there is a 30-day window for appeals.
The board’s decision allows the Cohens to proceed with the planned driveway and three-car garage construction.
Next steps: the variance is effective immediately subject to the local 30-day appeal period.
