Zoning Board Approves Two Setback Permits
The Reading Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved two special permits for homeowners to rebuild nonconforming porches and decks deeper into required setbacks.
Zoning Board · Meeting of July 14, 2026
READING — The Reading Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved two special permits for homeowners to rebuild nonconforming porches and decks deeper into required setbacks. Contractor Daniel McCarthy presented plans for the Stanton family at 32 Sturges Road, replacing an existing front porch sitting roughly 18.5 feet from the property line with a larger one at 17.5 to 19 feet, inside the town's 20-foot setback; two neighbors submitted letters calling the family "responsible, respectful members of the neighborhood." Applicant William Alexander won approval to expand a deteriorating rear deck at 163 Green Street to the full width of his house, bringing it to about nine feet from a side fence; Alexander told the board, "I know way more about decks now than I did, and a lot of ChatGPT so far, with a lot of double-checking." Both permits carry standard conditions requiring certified foundation and as-built plans before construction proceeds.
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Source: the Zoning Board meeting of July 14, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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