Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals is empowered by State Statute to hear, consider and decide upon appeals of decisions of zoning enforcement officer, variances to the zoning regulations, and the location of motor vehicle facilities licensed by the State Department of Motor Vehicles.

Appeals to the Decision of the ZEO

The Board may hear and decide appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any order, requirement or decision made by the official charged with the enforcement of the zoning regulations. If a disageement in the interpretation of the regulations occurs, an application for an appeals hearing may be presented to the Board, where a hearing will be held to gather information from both parties before a final decision is rendered. 

Zoning Variances

The Board has the power to determine and vary the application of the zoning regulations in harmony with their general purpose and intent.  Due consideration must be given for conserving the public health, safety, convenience, welfare and property values solely with respect to a parcel of land where, owing to conditions especially affecting such parcel but not affecting generally the district in which it is situated, a literal enforcement of the regulations would result in exceptional difficulty or unusual hardship.  Any variance granted by the Board shall run with the land and shall not be personal in nature to the person who applied for and received the variance, nor for any future owner.

Motor Vehicle Location of Use

The Board hears and decides applications for the location of any type of motor vehicle dealer or repair facility licensed by the State Department of Motor Vehicles.  Prior to applying to the State of Connecticut for a license to operate, a dealer or repairer must first present plans to the Board.  Approval by the Board does not preclude the need to pursue appropriate State licensing.  In the event that new construction is proposed, site plan approval before the Planning and Zonning Commission may also be required.


For more information regarding the Zoning Board of Appeals, please contact the Zoning Board of Appeals Agent at 860.793.0221 Ext. 220.