Saratoga Springs, N.Y. — Jim Hamilton appeared before the Zoning Board of Appeals on Sept. 29 seeking an area variance for HVAC condenser placement at his single-family home at 19 Aurora Avenue. The condensers are mounted within the required five-foot accessory side-yard setback; the applicant requested relief to 3.2 feet (relief of 1.8 feet, approximately 36%). The board did not vote and directed the applicant to submit neighborhood comparables and photos; the matter was continued to Oct. 27.

Why it matters: Side-yard accessory setbacks are intended to maintain separation between mechanical equipment and property lines; variance outcomes can set a precedent for the neighborhood if multiple properties exhibit similar installations.

What the applicant said: Jim Hamilton told the board he and his wife built the home about four years ago and moved in three years ago. An inspector raised several issues last year; Hamilton said he resolved all but the condenser placement, and that neighboring property owners had been notified. He reported he spoke with his next-door neighbor and the neighbor raised no objection.

Board guidance and requested evidence: Board members asked Hamilton to provide two or three comparables (photos and measurements) showing condenser placements in the Oak Ridge development to establish whether similar installations exist in the neighborhood and to strengthen the practical difficulty argument. The board noted the applicant is on a corner lot with limited placement options and that if comp properties also have condensers within setbacks, those examples would be useful to the record. Hamilton said he could provide photos for the Oct. 27 meeting and that he may not attend in person if unavailable; staff confirmed posted evidence could be submitted to planning staff for the record.

Next steps: Applicant to submit comparables and photographs to the Planning Department for upload to the case file before Oct. 27. The public hearing remains open.