Staff Notes 4/21/21 Town of Queensbury Zoning Board of Appeals
Community Development Department Staff Notes
Area Variance No.: 14-2021
Project Applicant: Robert McCormick
Project Location: 18 Dark Bay Lane
Parcel History: SP 13-2021; SP 15-91; SP 59-88
SEQR Type: Type II
Meeting Date: April 21,2021
Description of Proposed Project:
Revised: Applicant proposes a 110 sq. ft. porch addition to the main home and a 116 sq. ft. porch addition also
on the main home. The project includes a 500 sq. ft. carport addition to the existing 624 sq. ft. garage and
construction of a 1,995 sq. ft. garage with three bays. Site plan review for new floor area in a CEA, expansion
of a non-conforming structure, and project work within 50 ft. of 15% slopes. Relief requested for size of garage
and second garage.
Relief Required:
The applicant requests relief for size of garage and second garage in the Waterfront Residential zone—WR.
Section 179-5-020—garage
The proposed second garage is to be 1,995 sq. ft. and to be 3 bays. Relief is requested for the second garage,
garage greater than 1,100 sq. ft. The garage was reduced from 3,113 sq. ft. 8-car garage.
Criteria for considering an Area Variance according to Chapter 267 of Town Law:
In making a determination, the board shall consider:
1. Whether an undesirable change will be produced in the character of the neighborhood or a detriment
to nearby properties will be created by the granting of this area variance. Minor to no impacts to the
neighborhood may be anticipated.
2. Whether the benefit sought by the applicant can be achieved by some method, feasible for the
applicant to pursue, other than an area variance. Feasible alternatives may be considered to expand the
existing garage.
3. Whether the requested area variance is substantial. The request for relief may be considered moderate
to substantial relevant to the code. Relief is requested for a second garage and 895 sq. ft. in excess.
4. Whether the proposed variance will have an adverse effect or impact on the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood or district. Minor to no impact to the physical or
environmental conditions in the neighborhood may be anticipated.
5. Whether the alleged difficulty was self-created. The difficulty may be considered self-created.
Staff comments:
The applicant proposes to construct a second garage to store classic cars and antique boats. The new garage is
to be 16 ft. in height and have 3 bays. The plans show the revision of the size and appearance of the garage on
the site. The garage has been located closer to the home with a shorter driveway and smaller disturbance area.