The guest, Kevin Joyce, discusses zoning and the board of appeals process, including dimensional requirements, community meetings, and as-of-right projects. The podcast also delves into the importance of infrastructure support, the complexities of the permitting process, and the role of community engagement in zoning variances. Additionally, the guest shares insights on how different mayoral administrations have influenced growth and planning strategies in the city.
Community engagement plays a crucial role in the zoning and board of appeals process.
As-of-right projects can receive immediate building permits if they comply with dimensional requirements and allowed uses.
Deciding whether to appeal a zoning decision requires consideration of the neighborhood's character and a strong team for support.
Deep dives
Zoning and board of appeals process
The podcast episode discusses the zoning and board of appeals process, including topics such as as-of-right projects, dimensional requirements, allowed uses, community meetings, and appeals.
Different considerations for small and large projects
The podcast explores the differences in the zoning process for small homeowner projects and larger developments. It highlights that small projects may go through an advisory board before going to the main board of appeal. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the weight given to neighborhood councils' opinions.
Approval process and potential appeals
The podcast explains that after going through the neighborhood meeting and obtaining a decision from the board of appeal, the applicant can receive a permit to start construction. However, there is a waiting period of 20 days during which an appeal can be filed. If the board rejects the project, the applicant has the right to appeal the decision to the superior court for a new trial.
Navigating the Zoning Process
The podcast episode discusses the process of obtaining permits and approvals for building projects, focusing on zoning regulations. The speaker explains that there are specific setbacks and dimensional requirements in different zoning areas, which dictate how a property can be developed. If a project complies with these requirements and is considered an allowed use, it can be approved 'as of right,' meaning a building permit can be issued immediately. However, the majority of projects do not meet all the requirements, requiring further review and potentially an appeal to the zoning board.
Factors to Consider in Zoning Appeals
In this part of the podcast, the speaker explains the factors to consider when deciding whether to appeal a zoning decision. They emphasize the importance of understanding the neighborhood's character, architectural style, and the opinions of adjacent property owners or 'butters.' The speaker also highlights the need for a strong team, which may include an architect, attorney, and financial consultant. They mention that the success of an appeal can depend on the peculiar features of the land and its conformity to the neighborhood. However, they caution that the appeal process can be time-consuming, lasting up to two years.
In this episode with Kevin we discuss the zoning and board of appeals process. Including as of right projects, dimensional requirements, allowed uses, community meetings, good candidates for an appeals and more. We also manage to shoe horn some politics in there as well which is always fun.
Today's Show is brought to you by Central, commercial carpenters and supporters of our conversations.Enjoy the show!
