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Planning board approves small covered front landing at 36 Ware Road with condition
Summary
The board approved a variance to allow a 43-square-foot roof over the existing front landing at 36 Ware Road, maintaining the existing front-yard setback and allowing a de minimis increase in coverage, conditional on the front steps remaining open.
The Borough of Upper Saddle River Planning Board on May 13 granted variance relief to allow a 43-square-foot roof over the existing front landing at 36 Ware Road, finding the modest change was appropriate for a substandard lot.
Bruce Whitaker, Esq., presented the application; architect Mary Fitzpatrick Scro testified that the house footprint will not change and that the small roof is intended only to cover the top platform of the front steps. Ms. Scro told the board that the proposed improvement "will not be enclosed." The board reviewed Colliers Engineering’s April 15, 2026 review letter and the architectural plans prepared by Mary Fitzpatrick Scro dated Nov. 20, 2024.
The applicant acknowledged the pre-existing front-yard setback of 36.9 feet (50 feet required) and a building coverage increase from 16.48% to 16.80% (15% permitted), which triggered the need for variance relief. The board opened the hearing to the public; no members of the public appeared. Ms. Drennan moved to approve the application with the condition that the covered front steps remain open and not be enclosed; Mr. Preusch seconded. The motion passed by roll call (Ayes: 9).
The board’s approval allows the limited front entry roof to be installed consistent with the submitted plans and the stated condition.
