Which entity is responsible for hearing and deciding zoning appeals?

The zoning board of appeals is specifically established to handle cases involving zoning appeals. When a property owner or developer disagrees with a decision made by a local zoning authority—such as a variance request denial or an interpretation of zoning regulations—they can appeal to this board. The zoning board of appeals functions to ensure that there is a fair process for reviewing those disputes and can grant exceptions or modifications to zoning laws when justified. This authority is critical in balancing the rights of individual property owners with the overall planning objectives of the community.

In contrast, other entities such as the city council, planning commission, and local building department have distinct responsibilities. The city council typically deals with legislative actions, including approving new ordinances and budgets, while the planning commission focuses on long-term land use planning and development proposals. The local building department is responsible for enforcing building codes and issuing construction permits, rather than adjudicating zoning disputes. Thus, the zoning board of appeals is uniquely positioned to address and resolve zoning-related issues through an appeal process.