ZBA grants small lot‑coverage variance for Hemlock Street garage with no‑ADU condition

The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance on July 17 allowing an increase in lot coverage to permit construction of a detached two‑car garage at 326 Hemlock Street, subject to conditions including a ban on converting the garage to an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Engineer Jeff Tallman presented the request after a site survey showed the property is close to the maximum allowable lot coverage. The proposed 22-by-28 garage would increase coverage from about 24.4% to roughly 30.7% of the lot area; tallman said the shed on the property is not on a permanent foundation and therefore is not counted in coverage calculations. Board deliberations focused on lot coverage, drainage and neighborhood character. Planning staff noted drainage concerns in the area and said site‑plan review will require infiltration of new roof area and an engineering solution for stormwater. The board added a condition that the new garage not be used or converted as an ADU in the future to avoid creating a new dwelling unit on an already dense lot. Neighbors opposed the variance, saying the Highlands neighborhood has single‑family character and warning the addition would create a cramped condition. The board approved the variance by majority vote and required the owner to secure site-plan review and building permits and to pursue infiltration measures to address stormwater.