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ZBA approves special permit for 29 4th Street after brief debate over tiny encroachment
Summary
The Northampton Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a special permit for a rear addition at 29 4th Street that increases a nonconforming setback by about two inches; the contractor said the design addresses kitchen and accessibility needs and the board required a supermajority under the code.
The Northampton Zoning Board of Appeals on Feb. 26 approved a special permit for a rear addition at 29 4th Street (record LU26Dash4), concluding the proposal’s small increase in nonconformity nonetheless met the special-permit standard and site context.
Valley Home Improvement contractor Mitch Parker described the work as a modest rear extension to create kitchen and laundry space and a first-floor bathroom; the survey showed the proposed addition would be roughly 0.2 feet (about two inches) closer than the existing corner of the house. Because the application increases a nonconformity, it required a supermajority under zoning code section 350-9.3A10 (three of three votes).
Chair David Bloomberg and other board members praised the professional plans and noted the neighborhood’s dense, nonconforming character, which factored into their finding that the project is not substantially more detrimental. After brief discussion about potential tree impacts and pedestrian/contextual fit, the board closed public comment and approved the special permit by roll call; all voting members supported the application.
The board advised the applicant to protect any nearby significant trees during construction and to coordinate with the building inspector and planning staff on permit details. The decision carries the standard local appeal period.
