Zoning Board approves Schvitzy Sauna with two conditions
Chilmark's Zoning Board unanimously approved a special permit for Schvitzy Sauna at the Ruel Gallery through Memorial Day 2027. Applicant Emily Josephs proposed the wood-fired sauna at 31 Basin Road under Bylaw 4.2B1 with operations limited to four hours daily and appointment-only bookings.
Zoning Board of Appeals · Meeting of April 1, 2026
Chilmark's Zoning Board unanimously approved a special permit for Schvitzy Sauna at the Ruel Gallery through Memorial Day 2027. Applicant Emily Josephs proposed the wood-fired sauna at 31 Basin Road under Bylaw 4.2B1 with operations limited to four hours daily and appointment-only bookings. The Board imposed two conditions: a safety object in front of the sauna and Building Inspector and Fire Chief approval.
Ms. Josephs agreed the mobile structure would be removed when not in use. Public comment addressed chimney safety near the adjacent Iggy's Bread building; the sauna's chimney includes a spark arrester and is located more than 10 feet away.
Several residents voiced support for the community benefit.
In the full story:
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Source: the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting of April 1, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
Checked against the official minutes.
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