Planning commission backs zoning text change to allow accessory off‑street parking in Saybrook Point

The Old Saybrook Planning Commission on July 5 voted to send a favorable referral to the zoning commission for a text amendment that would allow accessory off‑street parking tied to uses in the Saybrook Point district.

Attorney Royston, speaking for the applicant, said the amendment adds language requiring that an accessory parking area be located in the same Saybrook Point district as the primary use so applicants can separate a parking parcel to enable septic system upgrades that serve a restaurant kitchen and nearby apartment units. Royston told the commission the change would let the parking area be treated as accessory for coverage calculations rather than requiring a time‑consuming special exception.

Royston also said regional reviewers largely supported the proposal: RiverCOG and Gateway found the amendment consistent with the regional plan of conservation and development, and Harbor Management later conveyed no comment. The attorney noted the project still requires DEP to release jurisdiction for septic work and that any change in ownership would be handled through easements to preserve the accessory relationship.

Commissioners asked whether the amendment would allow subdivision or sale of the parking lot. Counsel said accessory status would be preserved through recorded easements and that the regulation is framed to keep parking as accessory rather than to permit standalone commercial parking. Staff clarified that, as drafted, the amendment would make accessory off‑street parking permitted by right in qualifying cases and remove the need for a special‑exception approval that the zoning board now issues.

A commissioner moved a favorable recommendation, citing consistency with the town’s plan of conservation and development; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The zoning commission will review the text amendment and any site‑specific proposals in subsequent hearings.