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Zoning board denies proposal for new home at 30 Bayst Avenue over setback and coverage concerns
Summary
The Sayreville Zoning Board voted 6–0 to deny a revised plan for a new single‑family home at 30 Bayst Avenue, citing persistent bulk variances including building coverage (35% proposed vs. 20% allowed) and combined sideyard shortfalls, plus board concerns about emergency access despite revised plans.
The Sayreville Zoning Board on June 24 denied a revised application to build a new single‑family house at 30 Bayst Avenue after extended testimony and public comment.
Applicant counsel presented changes made since the prior hearing — notably a slight reduction in building coverage (from roughly 39.5% to 35%) and an increase in one sideyard setback — but the plan still required multiple bulk variances. Architect Robert Larson described modifications intended to address board feedback, including narrowing the house by two feet and adjusting grading. The applicant argued the small, historic lot (about 3,100 ft²) constrains design and should be considered a pre‑existing condition.
Neighbors and board members pressed concerns about the scale of coverage and proximity to property lines. On the record a board member stated that the proposal's 35% building coverage versus the 20% permitted, combined with tight sideyards, raised potential safety and access concerns. Board professionals noted that fire‑official review occurs at the building permit stage, but several members said they were not comfortable granting the relief on the evidence presented.
After public comment concluded, a motion to deny passed by roll call with six votes to deny. The chair announced the application was denied and memorialization will follow per the board's standard process.
The denial leaves the existing small single‑family cottage in place until or unless the applicants return with a plan that further reduces bulk relief requests or brings additional evidence addressing board concerns.
