Zoning board approves accessory structure variances for Petersburg Court property

The Silver Spring Township Zoning Hearing Board approved variances Dec. 9 for owners Alan Berger and Ann Infortuna to construct an auxiliary garage at 4 Petersburg Court in the Residential Estate (RE) zone. The applicants, represented by consultant James Mumper, sought relief from accessory-structure height and impervious coverage limits under Section 203.C, and they noted that the property’s original subdivision approvals (Hillside Farms Phase III and IV, 1976; revised 1987) were governed by an earlier rule (Section 203.2.3) that measured impervious area differently.

Mumper testified that at the time of the subdivision the lot complied with rules based on buildings-only calculations; under the current ordinance the property would remain compliant with or without the proposed garage. The homeowners association reviewed and approved the garage plans. After hearing testimony and adjourning to quasi-judicial deliberations, Vice Chairman Richard Maffett moved to approve the variances; Board Member Darrell McMillan seconded and the motion passed unanimously (4–0).

The approvals allow the homeowners to proceed with the auxiliary garage subject to any permit conditions the township applies. The transcript does not specify construction timing, building dimensions beyond the height relief, or any required mitigation measures.