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ZBA approves variance for a small rear addition at 893 Woodbury Avenue
Summary
The Portsmouth Zoning Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a variance allowing a 168 sq ft rear addition at 893 Woodbury Avenue, citing the lot’s undersized dimensions and limited public impact; vote recorded 5–0.
The Portsmouth Zoning Board of Adjustment voted unanimously to approve a variance that allows a 168‑square‑foot rear addition at 893 Woodbury Avenue.
The applicants, listed in the agenda as Gregory Sheave and Diane Lamprey, were represented in person by Greg Shive, who identified himself and described the project as a modest 12‑by‑4 addition intended to improve accessibility for aging in place. He told the board the house was built in 1951 and argued the addition would not harm public health, safety or the neighborhood character.
The application sought relief from section 10.521 for a reduced rear yard (27.5 feet where 30 feet is required) and increased building coverage (23% where 20% is permitted). Board members questioned elevations and site photos; one member noted an image in the packet appeared to be generated by an AI tool rather than a site photo.
During deliberations a board member explained that the property’s undersized lot supports a hardship finding and that the addition would not be the farthest point back on the lot or be visible from the street. That rationale, together with a lack of demonstrated harm to neighbors, led members to conclude the application met the variance criteria (public interest, spirit of the ordinance, substantial justice and unnecessary hardship).
Mr. Rossi moved to approve the request as advertised; the motion passed with all members voting yes (recorded as a 5–0 approval).
