3 Foot Setback Case and a Complete Demo – Rebuild Focus of Gardner Zoning Board
The Gardner Zoning Board of Appeals met on August 18, 2026. Listen to the entire meeting on any device, CLICK PLAY.
In the first case, a contractor representing homeowners seeks a three-foot setback variance to build a farmer’s porch on a residential lot constrained by wetland buffers. The board requested a site visit to verify property boundaries before making a final decision.
The second case involves a request to demolish a dilapidated structure and replace it with a modern three-family dwelling. After discussing construction impacts and neighborhood safety, the board approved the special permits with several specific conditions.
This meeting highlights the city’s efforts to balance housing expansion with local zoning regulations and community concerns. One of the infographics below explains the various Zoning concepts with an infographic entitled “Understanding Zoning Relief”. We also have “The High-Stakes Game of Inches” and lastly, a Gardner Magazine Reader Summary of the August 18, 2026 meeting. CLICK any Image for a larger view.
