Planning commission approves home-based gunsmithing permit, adds furniture restoration to scope

The Andover Planning & Zoning Commission on a 5‑0 vote approved Special Permit application 26‑3, allowing resident Seth Kane to operate a home‑based gunsmithing and firearms transfer business and to offer furniture restoration as part of a home‑occupation service.

Seth Kane told the commission he would run appointment‑only gunsmithing and restoration work from his garage and that "no explosives, nothing of that nature" would be stored on site. He said most work is machining and fabrication, that noise would be comparable to normal garage work, and that live fire would typically occur at the Andover Sportsman Club rather than on his property.

Commissioners pressed Kane on safety and neighbor impacts, asking whether he would install a bullet trap or otherwise restrict live fire if complaints arise. Wayne, the town's planning staff, suggested conditions such as requiring off‑site live fire at the sportsman's club or installation of a trap if complaints mount. Kane said he would consider a bullet trap if the commission required it and described live fire as an infrequent part of his work.

During deliberations a commissioner moved to approve the application and amended the motion to explicitly add furniture restoration to the list of permitted activities. The commission adopted the amendment and approved the permit by roll call. The motion as amended authorizes gunsmithing, firearms transfer services, and furniture restoration as a home occupation under section 4.12A of the Andover zoning regulations.

The commission and staff said they will follow up with the applicant on permit paperwork and any conditions set by the office, including signage and enforcement procedures. The applicant was directed to coordinate with town staff about permit compliance and next steps.

The commission recorded the vote as 5 yes, 0 no, 0 abstentions. The approved permit will be processed administratively by the planning office.