Zoning board approves front-yard setback variance for Tuckaway Lane porch

The Danbury City Zoning Board of Appeals on March 27 approved application 25-03, allowing a front-yard setback reduction so the homeowners can add a covered three-season porch to the front of their house on Tuckaway Lane. The board voted in favor after hearing the applicants describe the structure and the hardship that justifies the variance.

The applicants, who identified themselves as the Deshamps, told the board they want an attached, covered porch roughly 22 feet by 16 feet and that the house predates local zoning. “We were looking to get our setback adjusted so we could build a 3 season porch off of the front of the house,” an applicant said. They said backyard constraints — including a well and septic system — limit options for an addition behind the house.

Don Henard (Chair Joe Henard), who led the hearing, and other board members asked about the porch’s size, coverage and whether the work would be attached to the house. Board members confirmed the proposal is for a screened, covered porch (not a fully enclosed room) and heard no members of the public speak in opposition.

Mister Libero made the motion to approve the application “per plan submitted”; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The action, listed on the meeting agenda as reducing the front-yard setback from 50 feet to 35 feet for construction of a three-season porch, passed without recorded dissent.

The approval allows the homeowners to proceed subject to any building-permit conditions issued by city staff. The board’s next meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2025.