ZBA approves variance for Stafford garage that will encroach into 50‑ft setback

The Hampton Falls Zoning Board of Adjustment on July 23 approved a variance allowing Michael and Angela Stafford to build a two‑car garage at 3 Wadleigh Lane that will encroach as much as 10 feet into the town's 50‑foot setback. The board incorporated the five criteria shown in the application and attached plans and voted unanimously to grant the relief.

Michael and Angela Stafford told the board they moved to the property about four years ago and plan the garage primarily for hobbies and storage, with finished space above. Angela Stafford said, "The garage is not intended to be an ADU and will not have running water." She added that a one‑car garage would not provide the storage and workspace they need: "The project would not be worth it if only a 1‑car garage were approved." Neighbors closest to the project — abutter Bob Anderson of 1 Wadleigh Lane and Lyndi and Kevin Lanphear of 8 Wadleigh Lane — spoke in support of the proposal during the public comment period.

Board members asked why the garage could not be placed elsewhere on the two‑acre parcel and why the applicants required two bays rather than one. Michael Stafford said the house sits toward the north of the lot and there is no driveway access from another portion of the property, which constrains placement. After brief discussion the board voted on a motion from Chairman John DeLeire, seconded by Member Weezie Vance, to approve the setback relief and attach a condition that the structure remain nonconforming and that any future conversion to an accessory dwelling unit would require additional relief from the ZBA. The motion passed unanimously.