Zoning Board of Appeals

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The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is a quasi-judicial board whose role is to interpret the Framingham Zoning Bylaw in appeals of denied building permits or other determinations of the Building Commissioner and hear petitions for Special Permits and Variances subject to the requirements of Mass. General Laws Chapter 40A. The Board acts as the Sign Appeals Board, authorized under Article VII of the local bylaws, empowered to decide appeals and petitions for variances for signs that do not comply. Finally, the Board has jurisdiction over affordable housing projects proposed under M.G.L. Chapter 40B.

Board/Commission Duties

Terms last three years for full members with rotating appointments (one member’s term expires each year); one-year terms for Associates.

Membership Responsibilities

Members must be able to attend regular meetings. Members appointed to a case must be present for all meetings at which that case is discussed; otherwise, a decision may not be considered valid. They must review case materials before the meeting and be prepared to discuss and ask questions. Review and learn the requirements of the Zoning Bylaw and Chapter 40A (training provided). Determine, based on the law, whether a given petition should be granted or denied.

Member Skillset

Members with a background in law or regulatory compliance, land use planning, real estate, and/or urban development policy are encouraged. Cases involve sometimes complex questions of legal interpretation, property rights, and policy in defense of the law and public interest.

Meeting Information

Meeting dates/occurrence: Once per month, every second Wednesday; additional meetings as necessary determined by Chairman.