Nashua Zoning Board approves six variances, citing safety and lot constraints

The Nashua Zoning Board of Adjustment on June 23 approved six separate variance requests affecting single‑family properties across the city, voting unanimously (4–0) on each application.

Vice Chair Josh Neely opened the meeting and reminded applicants that with four board members present they required three affirmative votes for approval. The board granted variances for: a front porch overhang at 3 March Street; a 6×8 front entry at 8 Parker Drive; a modestly larger rear deck at 55 Conant Road; an 11×20 attached home addition at 6–8 Mulberry Street; two accessory sheds at 53 Langholm Drive that exceed the accessory‑area limit; and a minimum‑lot‑area variance to convert 6 Arlington Street from a single‑family to a two‑family residence.

Applicants described safety or practical reasons for their requests. Peter Breen, owner of 3 March Street, told the board his roof runoff “created a sheet of ice” on his front stairs and said, “This structure would also solve that issue,” as the proposed overhang would reduce icing and bring the stair configuration into safer, more code‑compliant dimensions. Member Steven Lionel said the request was “absolutely reasonable and in keeping with the neighborhood.” The board approved that variance 4–0.

At 8 Parker Drive, applicant Carla (Shamoon) said the main purpose of the proposed entryway was safety for her 12‑year‑old son and to reduce icy conditions at the house. As she told the board, “For the entryway is gonna be good for him because he 1st gonna provide, shelter, better shelter for him, waiting for the school bus.” Board members described the addition as consistent with nearby properties and approved the variance 4–0.

Laurie Ann Risler asked to replace a rotting 10×12 deck with a 14×20 open deck at 55 Conant Road; because the rear lot line is angled the proposed deck would encroach modestly into the 30‑foot rear setback at one corner. Neely read multiple neighbor letters in support. The board concluded the change was compatible with the enlarged house and approved the request 4–0.

For 6–8 Mulberry Street, Jorge Gomez said the proposed 11×20 addition would “square out” the house and provide an extra room for a daughter; board members agreed the lot’s geometry and existing placement of the house made a variance reasonable and approved the application 4–0.

The board heard a contested accessory‑area request at 53 Langholm Drive. Dawn Mirotek said the house lacks attached garage storage and asked to replace and slightly enlarge an existing shed and add a second shed so items such as ATVs can be stored; she told the board, “The sheds will be built by Reeds Ferry, so they'll be aesthetically pleasing to the neighborhood.” Neighbor Patrick Hogan (10 Shetland Road) spoke in opposition, saying he had not been contacted and that two structures of that size “will devalue the neighborhood.” Mirotek replied the new front shed replaces an existing structure and that tree lines and city property would limit sightlines; the board approved the variance 4–0 while noting the applicant must obtain the appropriate building permit.

Finally, Sali Amrani, representing EJR Homes, requested a minimum‑lot‑area variance to convert 6 Arlington Street to a two‑family residence; the lot is 4,825 sq ft and the code requires 6,970 sq ft for a two‑family conversion in that zone. Amrani said surrounding blocks already include multi‑family properties and that the proposed conversion would not change the building footprint. The board approved the variance 4–0, with members saying the conversion is consistent with the character and density of the neighborhood.

On procedural matters, Neely reminded applicants that approvals are subject to a 30‑day appeal period and that building permits are required; staff noted the building department is busy in summer and permits may take several working days to process. The board reviewed upcoming agenda items for regional impact, approved the draft minutes and adjourned the meeting.

What happens next: applicants may proceed with project plans pending the 30‑day appeal window; for building work, applicants must apply for a building and land‑use permit through the city’s building department.