About the Board

As noted in Chapter 154.560 of the Zoning Code, the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) has been established to hear appeals from decisions of the Zoning Inspector or the City Planning Commission. The Board's other main function is to authorize variances or exceptions to the provisions of the Zoning Code when a strict application of the code would result in unreasonable hardship to the property owner.

Meeting Schedule

The BZA consists of 7 citizen members and meets the first and third Monday of each month (city holidays excepted) when there are agenda items to discuss.

Conditions Necessary for Granting A Variance (see Chapter 154.561C)

A variance to provisions of the zoning code shall be granted by the BZA only if all of the following conditions are established by the applicant:

(1) Special conditions and circumstances exist which are peculiar to the land, structure, or building involved and which are not generally applicable to other lands, structures, or buildings in the same district.

(2) Literal interpretation of the provisions of this chapter would deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other properties in the same district under the terms of this chapter.

(3) The special conditions and circumstances do not result from the actions of the applicant.

(4) There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applying to the property involved or to the intended use or development of he property that do not apply generally to other properties or uses in the same zoning district or neighborhood.

(5) Granting the variance would be in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this chapter and would not be injurious to the neighborhood or otherwise detrimental to the public welfare.

(6) The requested variance is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the land, building or structure.

Applications

To printout a variance application form, click here: BZA - Variance Application.

If appealing a decision of the zoning inspector in the administration and/or enforcement of the zoning code or if appealing the Planning Commission's refusal to issue a conditional zoning certificate or site plan approval, use the following application: BZA - Appeal Application.

Go to the Fees page for more information about application filing fees.

What If I'm Not Satisfied with the Board's Decision Regarding My Application?

Decisions of the Board may be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas. The City suggests that you contact your legal representative for additional information.