Metuchen planning board recommends allowing corner lots to use nonconforming side-yard exception

The Metuchen Planning Board voted to recommend that the governing body adopt an amendment to the borough zoning ordinance removing an exception that previously barred corner lots from using the non-conforming side-yard exception.

The change, presented by Chris (planning professional), deletes wording that treated corner lots differently from other undersized single-family lots. Chris said the amendment "literally" removes two words and follows a recommendation from the Zoning Board of Adjustment. He described the existing relief: where a zoning district requires an 8-foot side-yard, a property that is nonconforming may be allowed to extend or build so long as at least 50% of the required setback remains, enabling modest additions without a variance.

Board members sought clarification on limits. Chris said the exception does not allow making a nonconforming setback worse; any proposal that further reduces an existing setback still requires a variance. He also reiterated long-standing constraints: the exception cannot be used for two-story or third-story additions in a way that would unduly affect a neighbor's light and air. Several members urged clearer drafting of the ordinance language so homeowners and permit reviewers are not confused.

A motion to note that the amendment is not in conflict with the master plan and to recommend adoption was moved and seconded (the second was recorded as Mr. Gman). Roll-call votes recorded affirmative votes from Miss Clarkson; Miss Conn; Mr. Dia; Miss Galver; Mr. Gman; Miss Koscowski; Mr. Lifton; Mr. Love; and Mr. Ericson; no nays were recorded. The board's endorsement will be forwarded to the governing body for final action.

The board also discussed future code-cleanup work and the possibility of recodifying unclear sections to improve clarity for residents and staff. The board concluded the item and moved on to other business.