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Warner Planning Board reviews driveway regulation examples, raises safety and affordability concerns
Summary
Board members reviewed sample driveway rules and discussed defining private vs. shared driveways, safety concerns about a 15% grade for large vehicles, and seeking input from Fire, Police and Highway departments while weighing affordability impacts.
At the April 6 meeting Warner Planning Board members considered examples of driveway regulations from other towns and state references, focusing on how to define private and shared driveways and how to handle steep grades.
Vice Chair Barak Greene and member James Gaffney led the discussion, noting concerns about a 15% grade standard. Greene said steep grades can be hazardous for large vehicles and equipment and highlighted state rules that distinguish minor and major driveways and 911 addressing thresholds. Gaffney urged the board to balance safety with affordability, noting that added construction costs can significantly increase a homeowner’s long-term payments.
Board members agreed to seek input from the Fire, Police and Highway departments on safe access and comfort levels for emergency response and town equipment. The board also discussed whether the Planning Board should clearly define terms used across town regulations or leave some decisions to the town-wide ordinance process. Members agreed to continue working on precise language and to invite department feedback at a future work session.
