Board approves unique home design after easement challenges in subdivision

March 11, 2025 | Town of Danvers, Essex County, Massachusetts


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Board approves unique home design after easement challenges in subdivision
A significant zoning decision unfolded at the Danvers Zoning Board of Appeals meeting on March 10, 2025, as board members approved a controversial home build despite ongoing concerns about the property’s unique challenges. The discussion centered around a residential lot that had faced multiple setbacks due to its irregular shape and existing easements, which complicated construction efforts for previous buyers.

The property owner detailed the arduous journey to secure approval, revealing that three potential buyers had previously backed out due to the lot's constraints. After four years of attempts to navigate the zoning hurdles, the owner finally succeeded in completing the build, which features a distinctive design shaped by the right-of-way easement that had been in place. The owner emphasized that the house, now completed, boasts a beautiful backyard, although the back wall of the home had to be modified due to the easement.

Board members expressed their support for the project, acknowledging the unique circumstances surrounding the property. "You have a lot of issues going on with this piece of property, and a lot of things that are kind of out of your control," one member noted, highlighting the challenges faced by the owner. The board ultimately voted in favor of the build, with members citing the modest nature of the adjustments and the lack of opposition from neighbors.

The approval marks a pivotal moment for the homeowner, who had invested significant time and resources into overcoming the zoning obstacles. As the community watches the development of this unique property, the decision underscores the complexities of zoning regulations and the importance of adaptability in residential construction.

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Scribe from Workplace AI
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