186 Federal Street Statement of Grounds-1City of Salem
Zoning Board of Appeals
93 Washington Street
Salem, MA 01970
STATEMENT OF GROUNDS FOR
SPECIAL PERMIT
FOR 186 FEDERAL STREET, SALEM
This application requests that the Board issue a Special Permit under either Section
3.3.3 or, in the alternative, under section 3.3.2 or 3.3.5 of the Salem Zoning
Ordinances, to allow the alteration of an existing structure to enclose an existing
porch that exists behind the garage.
We want to use the existing structure, which is currently the open porch behind the
garage, as a three (3)-season room. This was built in October 2023, permitted, inspected
and approved by the city. The porch is hidden behind the garage that has a 4ft setback
on the westerly side. The only thing on the west side is my fence facing my neighbor. All
other setbacks the city requires are met. We want to enclose the existing structure by
adding walls and windows.
Grounds for Relief:
The grounds for granting the Special Permit are that this proposed change will not
be substantially more detrimental to the neighborhood than the existing condition
of the property, taking into account the following factors:
1) The social, economic, and community needs of the city are not impaired
by enclosing this structure in Salem.
2) Because the pre-existing use is not being changed there should not be
any increased impact on traffic and parking by this use.
3) Adequate utilities and other public services already service the structure. The
necessary municipal utilities that serve the original structure will also serve
this enclosure.
4) Impacts on the natural environment, including drainage: there will be no
impact on the natural environment.
5) Neighborhood character: the project is in keeping with the neighborhood
character. The Historical Commission has approved the structure and
required building materials.
6) Potential fiscal impact, including impact on city tax base and employment:
Construction will allow for new and temporary construction jobs and the
enclosure will add to the city’s tax base.