Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals - September 14, 2026

The Lowell Zoning Board of Appeals held a meeting on September 14, 2026, to review several zoning variance and special permit applications related to residential and commercial property developments. Key procurement-related discussions included multiple variance requests for residential additions and new home constructions, with applicants seeking relief from minimum lot size, frontage, and floor area ratio requirements. Notably, the board considered a proposal for a single-family home on a 5,500 square foot lot at 384 Butman Road, which involved significant neighborhood opposition due to concerns about lot size, parking, and stormwater management. The board also reviewed a special permit for a Napa Auto Parts store at 211 Plain Street, which was approved unanimously. Several motions to approve variances were passed with conditions, while one complex residential project at 37-39 Robert Street was continued to a future meeting for further clarification and neighborhood engagement. The board discussed potential zoning bylaw amendments, including changes to floor area ratio limits, as part of ongoing zoning steering committee efforts.