Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is a semi-judicial body which interprets the local zoning ordinance and makes judgments on its meaning on special cases. The ZBA has authority to grant zoning "variances" which modify the use and area restrictions of a zoning ordinance where strict interpretations of the ordinance results in unusual constraints or unnecessary hardships for a property owner; and may administer provisions of the ordinance that involve the granting of special permits for certain uses of land. Consisting of 5 Members with 3-year term; 2 alternates with 1-year terms, the ZBA is often required to interact with other boards or agencies (local, neighboring, County, State or Federal).