The Zoning Board of Appeals is a quasi-judicial board, which interprets and enforces the Town’s Zoning Bylaw. On a case-by-case basis, the Board of Appeals has the power to hear and decide on petitions for:
· Appeals from the decisions of the Inspector of Buildings
· Special Permits as allowed under the Zoning Bylaw
· Variances from the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw
· Comprehensive Permits under Chapter 40B of Massachusetts General Laws
The Zoning Board of Appeals is comprised of 5 regular members and 3 associate members, all appointed for 3-year terms by the Board of Selectmen.
The Board of Appeals holds public hearings on all cases before it. Hearings are generally held on Thursday evenings on an “as-needed” basis. Notice of these hearings must be published 14 days before the hearing, and property owners who live within 300 feet must also be notified at the same time. The entire application, hearing and approval process takes a minimum of two months from the time of application to a signed decision. After a decision is written, signed and filed with the Town Clerk, there is a 20-day appeals period.
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