City Planning Board OKs In-Law Apartment on Maple Street

By Chris Frost
Eagle Times News Editor
CLAREMONT, NH — The Planning Board unanimously approved Stephen and Molly McManus’ application for a Conditional Use Permit to create an Accessory Dwelling Unit in an attached garage at 8 Maple Avenue on Monday, Sept. 11.

City Council Representative Deborah Matteau made the motion, seconded by Vice Chair David Putnam.

Chairman Richard Wahrlich noted the planner has no concerns with the application.

McManus explained he wants to build an in-law apartment on the second floor of his garage.

“Right now, my in-laws are living with us in our house, and we would like to give them a little more convenient space,” he said.

Board members discussed the parking situation for the in-law unit, and it was determined that there’s 10-15 feet from the neighbor’s property line, which is plenty accommodating. Additional concerns were brought up about the lockability of the door at the staircase, as well as fears about carbon monoxide exposure.

“The guidelines from various safety organizations is not warming up cars inside the garage because the carbon monoxide does not go upstairs,” Burdick said. “As long as you open the doors, plenty of air gets in, so they’ll be safe.”