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ZBA roundup: pool, porch and deck variances approved; several large variances continued for more data
Summary
At its July 8 meeting the Saratoga Springs ZBA approved multiple area‑variance requests (Royal Henley pool, 5th Avenue extension, Bensonhurst porch, Oranda deck, 139 Elm carriage structure) and left larger, more substantial variance requests (12 Nelson Avenue, 24 Schuyler Drive) open for additional materials and verification.
The Saratoga Springs Zoning Board of Appeals on July 8 approved several routine area‑variance requests and extended or continued others after discussion and follow‑up instructions to applicants.
Key votes and results
• 4 Royal Henley Court (in‑ground pool): the board approved an area variance to reduce the rear setback from 30 feet to 15 feet (relief requested 15 feet, 50%); the motion passed 6–0 after the board found neighborhood context and comparables supported approval.
• 74 5th Avenue (variance extension): the board extended a previously granted area variance and updated the applicant on case details; motion carried 6–0.
• 57 Bensonhurst Avenue (front porch): the board approved an area variance to permit a new porch within the existing envelope, reducing an interior side setback from 8 feet to 2 feet (relief 6 feet, 75%); motion carried 6–0.
• 28 Oranda Spring Drive (deck replacement): the board approved replacement of an existing deck in the same footprint with modern materials (variance ~20.8%); motion carried 6–0.
• 139 Elm Street (continued business; carriage‑house/second principal structure): after updates the board approved the draft motion to permit a second principal structure on a combined lot; motion carried 6–0.
Items continued or requiring follow‑up
• 12 Nelson Avenue (two‑story garage with living space): the applicant requested multiple substantial variances because the lot is significantly undersized for RR zoning. The board urged the applicant to investigate permeable pavers, remove or address an unpermitted shed, and to provide more precise permeability calculations; the item was left open pending supplemental materials.
• 24 Schuyler Drive: the owner submitted revised plans reducing coverage (by removing a proposed deck) and supplying window locations; the board asked staff to verify whether accessory structures and sheds were included in the coverage calculation and requested digital plans before the July 22 meeting.
Board procedure and next steps
Several applications were assigned "homework" to provide clarifying documentation (e.g., permeability maintenance plans, neighborhood comparables, photos, and survey clarifications). The board scheduled follow‑up at its July 22 meeting and asked applicants to submit materials at least a week prior to allow staff review.
Votes were unanimously in favor (where recorded) on the items brought to a final vote at this meeting; the record shows multiple 6–0 outcomes.
