Planning a Project?

A zoning permit is similar to a variance. Zoning permits allow the use of a  property for a purpose other than designated by the property's zoning, as long  as the business use doesn't adversely affect the neighborhood. A zoning permit  or variance may be needed in a number of situations that may change  the zoning classification of the property, such as the following: 

• if you are engaged in the construction or alteration of a building that may  change its classification; 
• if you intend to change the use of an existing building to a different zoning  classification; 
• if you want to build a structure on vacant land; 
• if you want to change the use of land to a different zoning type;
• if you make any change in a nonconforming use, i.e., you make a change to a  structure that had previously been "grandfathered" from complying with current  zoning requirements.

A competent architect can help guide you through the process of obtaining a zoning permit  or variance.

The zoning or planning board must give you the permit or variance  before you can begin construction or use the building for business purposes.