Litchfield ZBA unanimously approves variances for Battistoni to build ADA-accessible garage at 72 Clark Road

The Litchfield Zoning Board of Appeals on June 30 unanimously approved variances allowing owner D. Battistoni to construct a 16-foot by 24-foot, ADA-compliant single-car garage at 72 Clark Road.

The board granted a 15-foot front-yard variance from Section 1.2 (Rural Residences, Subsection 2 — 50-foot front setback) and a 12-foot side-yard variance from the same subsection, finding that grading, the locations of the septic system, well and adjacent wetlands, and the lot’s topography created a practical hardship that justified relief. The finished garage will sit approximately 65 feet from the street, and the structure includes a 7-foot door and provisions for a ramp or platform lift to provide level access into the house.

Owner D. Battistoni described the existing conditions: the house (built in 1950) sits on a narrow 3.4-acre sloped lot with the current driveway and garage at the basement level, forcing occupants who use a wheelchair to navigate a steep slope to reach the front door. The proposed garage is intended to allow weather-protected, first-floor vehicle access; the board noted the plan had received TAHD approval on May 5.

The board’s approval followed a motion by Commissioner J. Zwick, seconded by Commissioner M. Blasavage, and the vote was recorded as unanimous. No members of the public attended to speak for or against the application.

The decision grants the specific setbacks described in the application and does not specify additional conditions beyond those discussed at the hearing. With the variance approved, the applicant may proceed with permitting and HDC or other required clearances as applicable.