Board of Zoning and Building Appeals

The Board of Zoning and Building Appeals assists in the administration of the city’s zoning code and building code by hearing appeals and exercising judgment in zoning and building issues, and in an impartial manner.

Membership

The board consists of five (5) regular members and two (2) alternate members appointed by the mayor, with the approval of a majority of the members of city council.

The mayor, or his/her representative, and one member of council appointed by the president of council, may participate in board proceedings as nonvoting members.

Meetings

The board is required to meet at least once per month. Meetings may be cancelled if no appeals are filed.

Board meetings are open to the public, and are held at City Hall, 15700 Bagley Road, at 7:30 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.

Public Participation

Any person may testify at a board hearing, or be represented by a duly authorized agent or attorney.

Summary of Power and Duties

The zoning board has subpoena power under the authority under our city charter, and is authorized to hear appeals and to act in regards to:

1. Applications for variances from the provisions and standards set forth in the zoning code.
2. All matters specifically referred to the board for decision, with authority to affirm or reverse previous decisions in whole or in part.
3. Hearing and deciding appeals from any applicant regarding decisions made by the building commissioner, or by any administrative official or agency of the city in matters pertaining to the city’s zoning code and/or building code.