Larchmont board adopts new driveway rules and flood‑zone height standards

The Village of Larchmont Board of Trustees on April 21 adopted two changes to the village zoning code: a revised driveway‑standards law and supplemental height standards for one‑family homes in flood‑prone areas.

Mayor (speaker 1) opened the public hearing for the driveway standards, said the item had been adjoined from prior meetings and moved the item forward. After no public comment, the board voted to declare a negative SEQRA determination. Village attorney Stout flagged a typographical error in the draft law and asked the board to correct a misplaced period so the phrase reads “unless otherwise approved by the planning board.” Stout said, “If you change the period to the correct place, the substance will be ‘unless otherwise approved by the planning board.’” The board approved the correction and adopted Local Law 2025‑3 to amend driveway placement and width requirements.

Separately, the board considered supplemental standards for single‑family homes in specified flood zones. The mayor described the measure as allowing the planning board discretion to permit limited additional height so homes can be elevated above the floodplain without adding an extra story. The board declared no negative environmental impact under SEQRA, opened the public hearing (no speakers), and adopted the local law allowing the limited height exceptions.

Both measures passed following procedural motions and votes. The changes place zoning discretion with the planning board for site‑specific departures while clarifying construction standards for areas at flood risk.

What happens next: The zoning amendments are effective as adopted and will be reflected in updated code language; planning‑board applications that request departures under the new provisions will follow the village’s normal application and review procedures.