Gloucester Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting | July 30, 2026

The Gloucester Zoning Board of Appeals held a meeting on July 30, 2026, addressing multiple zoning and special permit applications. Key procurement-related discussions included approvals for special permits and variances related to property modifications such as height exceptions for elevator shafts, expansions of non-conforming structures, and construction of sheds and decks. The board approved a height exception special permit for a duplex at 46 Middle Street, a special permit to convert a single-family to a three-family dwelling at 354 Essex Avenue, and special permits for porch and deck reconstructions. Additionally, the board discussed a multi-family 62-unit development at 272 Washington Street, with the applicant requesting a continuance to explore alternative zoning paths outside the Chapter 40B process. The board agreed to defer action on this application pending further guidance. There were also discussions regarding drainage enforcement issues related to a property at 12 Andrews Court, with the board ultimately upholding the building commissioner's denial of zoning enforcement. Motions were passed by roll call votes for the various permits and continuances, and draft decisions were to be prepared for review.