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Board approves small roof deck at 22 Narragansett Ave, 4–1
Summary
The Newport Zoning Board granted a dimensional variance and Category 6 special-use permit for a 117-square-foot rooftop deck at 22 Narragansett Ave on Nov. 24, 2025, finding lot constraints and limited backyard space justified a small rooftop space; one member dissented, citing self-created hardship.
The Newport Zoning Board approved on Nov. 24 a petition allowing a modest rooftop deck at 22 Narragansett Avenue by a 4–1 vote.
Applicants Ronald and Kristen Dunbar told the board the family intends to make the house their full-time residence and that the property's long, narrow lot and an awkward, cramped backyard limit usable outdoor space. Architect Spencer Alexander, accepted by the board as an expert, described how recent renovations created a practical three-story home but left limited exterior recreation space; the proposed deck would measure about 117 square feet and accommodate two chairs and a small table.
Objector counsel argued the height variance request is tied to the property owners' earlier decision to expand the house and rise nearly to the height limit, and that the alleged hardship was therefore self-created. "You can't build the maximum footprint of a structure and then come back to this board and say, 'Oh, two months later I need more relief,'" counsel said.
Supporters of the Dunbars and the applicant's expert witnesses said the amendment to reduce the deck size and the removal of a previous walkout entry meaningfully reduced impacts on neighbors. "A 117-square-foot deck is really de minimis," the applicant's real-estate witness said, and the architect testified the deck is set back and oriented to minimize implications for neighboring properties.
Board members weighed competing claims. Four members concluded the constrained lot and limited backyard constituted a hardship that justified a small rooftop deck and that the reduced design would not alter neighborhood character; one member dissented, concluding the applicants had created the condition by raising the house earlier this year. The decision requires the usual condition that the project start and be substantially complete within 12 months and that public-notice invoice costs be paid prior to recordation.
The board will issue findings of fact and the formal decision for recording.
