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Dennis Board of Health grants septic variances for multiple properties and approves temporary chicken coop permit
Summary
The board approved variances for renovations and reconstructions at several properties (including Unit 4 Old Wharf Road, 11 Perseverance Path and 71 Crocker's Path) and permitted a six‑chicken coop at 14 Skerry Road with a six‑month revisit; all motions passed unanimously.
The Dennis Board of Health unanimously approved multiple variance applications and a temporary chicken coop permit during its July meeting.
Dan Crodo of Moran Engineering (representing owners of Unit 4, Old Wharf Road) described the Unit 4 renovation as a like‑for‑like, two‑bedroom replacement that will not increase septic loading; the board approved the requested 8.5 variance with conditions (items 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 12). "They're looking to redo Unit 4, which was built in 1954," Crodo said when introducing the application and explaining there would be no bedroom increase.
Bob Reed of JM O'Reilly & Associates presented a similar variance request for 11 Perseverance Path, noting the septic remains in the previously approved location and the plan keeps four bedrooms; the board approved the variance with standard conditions and an extra precautionary condition (item 10).
Dan Ojila of Downkeep Engineering described a modest rebuild at 71 Crocker's Path and sought a 16b variance to allow a gravity leaching system with venting; board members raised questions about nitrogen and pathogen risk but concluded the project posed low environmental impact and approved the variances with usual conditions.
Separately, the board reviewed a permit for a chicken coop at 14 Skerry Road. The applicant (identified in the record as "Britney") said she intends to compost waste on her property; neighbors objected to composting, burning and nuisance behavior. Committee member S2 moved to permit construction of a coop for up to six chickens under Town of Dennis rules, with a revisit scheduled in six months. Members reiterated that roosters are not allowed. The motion carried unanimously.
Why it matters: The variance approvals allow property owners to renovate or rebuild while maintaining community protections (standard conditions and review). The temporary chicken coop permit balances neighborhood complaints with a time‑limited approval and a follow‑up check.
What’s next: Applicants must meet the conditions specified in each memorandum and submit revised plans or documentation where required; the health department will monitor compliance and schedule the six‑month revisit for the Skerry Road permit.
