Board approves condenser setback variance for 48 Evergreen with vegetation screening condition

The Springfield Township Board of Adjustment on April 29 granted a side‑yard setback variance for two AC condensers recently installed at 48 Evergreen Avenue, approving the units to remain with a condition that the owners install vegetation screening along the property line.

Co‑owner Alex Freriedenberg explained that the house had been heated by an old boiler and that the contractor installed a hybrid heating and cooling system, including an outdoor condenser and mini‑splits for upper‑floor bedrooms. Freriedenberg said the contractor believed it could secure permits and that work began before the permit was filed; he told the board, "we weren't aware but you know they went proceeded did the work. I think they started on the 19th of February." The owners said the chosen condenser location minimized visible impact from the street and allowed efficient direct line sets to the bedroom mini‑splits.

Board members and staff discussed alternate condenser locations, the efficiency and line‑set length for mini‑split systems, and potential noise impacts. A unanimous suggestion from several members was to require evergreen plantings or similar vegetation to screen the units from the adjacent property. The board moved and approved the variance with a condition that screening vegetation be planted along the side property line; the motion passed with one member recorded as a no vote.

The board’s approval requires the applicant to document the screening plan for the record and proceed with the permit application process with the screening as a condition of the zoning relief.