LTR RE SLOP3 @ REAR OF 14 CHANELLE CIR. CITY OF SALEM, MASSACHUSETTS
c:�;; �. r•, BUILDING DEPARTMENT
98WASHINGTON STREET,2ND FLOOR
TEL: 978-745-9595
KIMBERLEY DRISCOLL FAX: 978-740-9846
MAYOR
THOMAS ST.PIERRE
DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROPERTIES/BUILDING COMMISSIONER
March 5, 2021
Osborne Hills Realty Trust
749 Lowell Street
Box 780
Lynnfield Ma. 01940
Re: slope at rear of 14 Chanelle Circle, Salem, Massachusetts
Dear Trustee,
The owner, of the property above, has sent several emails referencing a Building Code violation regarding the
slope at the rear of his property. I want to go on the record to state that we have not called out a building code
violation. I believe the owner of this property at 14 Chanelle Circle , is trying to state that the slope behind his
home violates section R403.1.7.1 of the 2015 International Residential Code with Mass amendments which
makes it the 9th edition of the State Building Code. The toe of the slope is approximately 30' from the
foundation of the home.
It is my opinion that this is not a violation of section R403.1.7.1
Furthermore, our opinion is that section R403.1.7.4 applies since the slope's base is ledge, which is not subject
to movement. Further complicating this matter is that the owner of this property disturbed the slope when he
started to construct an un-permitted retaining wall. My Assistant, Steve Cummings instructed him to stop and
to provide drawings and file for a building permit which is underway now.
If anyone wishes to appeal my interpretation of the State Building Code, they must file an appeal with the
Board of Buildings, Regulations and Standards in Boston.
Sincerely,
C41("104
Thomas St. Pierre