3 Lemon Street Statement of HardshipStatement of Hardship
I am the owner of a single-family home located at 3 Lemon Street, Salem,
Massachusetts. I am applying for a variance to construct a rear dormer addition in order
to finish the attic space and make it a safe, functional, and livable part of my home. I
respectfully submit the following statement of hardship in support of this request:
a) Special conditions and circumstances that especially affect the land, building, o r
structure involved, generally not affecting other lands, buildings, and structures in the
same district:
The existing structure at 3 Lemon Street has a steeply pitched roof and limited ceiling
height in the attic, rendering it largely unusable for practical living purposes. The depth
and configuration of the lot, combined with the roof ’s existing slope, prevent any
meaningful use of the attic without modest exterior expansion. This physical constraint
is not universally shared by nearby homes, some of wh ich already benefit from dormers
or other structural modifications. As such, these circumstances create a unique
limitation on my property that warrants relief.
b) Literal enforcement of the Ordinance would involve substantial hardship to the
applicant:
Without the requested variance, I will be unable to complete the attic renovation, which
is essential for accommodating the growing needs of my household. In the current
housing market, expanding within the existing footprint is both financially and logist ically
necessary. The inability to finish the attic would significantly limit the utility of the home
and impose an undue hardship on my family, who otherwise must navigate costly
alternatives such as relocation or major structural overhauls.
c) Desirable relief may be granted without substantial detriment to the public good, and
without nullifying or substantially derogating from the intent of the district or the purpose
of the ordinance:
The proposed dormer will be located at the rear of the house, preserving the character
of the front elevation and minimizing visual impact to neighbors and the public way. The
design will be in harmony with the style of the existing home and the surrounding
neighborhood. The project does not seek to increase the building footprint or change
the use of the structure. It is a modest and thoughtful improvement that allows for a
safer, more functional use of existing space. Granting this variance supports the
continued residential use of the home without undermining the purpo se of the ordinance
or adversely affecting public welfare.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Brayden Varr
3 Lemon Street
Salem, MA 01970
Phone: (617) 800-4977