ZBA approves front-yard shed variance for McCormick and Davis on Old Ridge Road

The Town of Warwick Zoning Board of Appeals voted to grant Patrick McCormick and Deirdre Davis a front-yard area variance for a 12-by-20 shed at 101 Old Ridge Road in the RU district. The applicant proposed placing the shed 39.7 feet from the front property line where the code requires a 75-foot setback.

Board members confirmed certified mailings had been sent, reviewed a survey and site photos, and classified the application as a Type 2 action under SEQR (617.5(c)(12)), concluding no adverse environmental impact required referral. A board member explained the location was chosen because “it aligned with the driveway and it’s already a flat area,” and members noted the shed would mirror the adjacent property’s accessory structure.

During consideration of the five statutory variance criteria, the board found the request substantial in terms of setback reduction (approximately 35.3 feet, or 47%), but agreed the shed would require minimal clearing and would be consistent with surrounding built character. A motion to grant the variance as advertised passed with the members present voting in favor.

The board recorded on the record that the shed must meet side-yard minimums required by code (a minimum 5-foot side-yard distance for sheds) if not otherwise specified on the plan; the board closed the public hearing after the vote.