Board of adjustment
A board of adjustment is an appointed board that decides zoning variances, appeals of staff decisions, and, in some places, special exceptions.
Also called zoning board of appeals, board of zoning appeals, BZA, or ZBA.
What it tells you
Board agendas show projects stuck on one rule, like height, parking, or a setback, which usually means detailed plans exist. A granted variance often clears the way for a site plan and building permit.
How it moves through a city or county
- An owner applies for a variance or appeals a staff decision.
- Staff prepare a report, and nearby owners get notice.
- The board holds a hearing and takes testimony.
- It decides by vote, and appeals usually go to a state court.
Names and powers differ by state, and some states require more than a simple majority of the board to grant a variance. Some places use a hearing examiner instead.
Recent variances and special exceptions
From public filings in Georgia, Missouri, and West Virginia.
| Project | Location | Developer | Type | Size | Stage | Latest meeting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3-Unit Residential Development on 7.41 Acres | Cottleville, MO | Mid Rivers Equities II, LLC | Single-family | 3 homes7.41 acres | Seeking approval | |
| 48-Unit Residential Development on 22 Acres | Johns Creek, GA | Handsel Holdings, LLC | Single-family | 48 homes21.6 acres | Seeking approval | |
| 25-Unit Residential Development on 1.36 Acres | Monongalia, WV | T & H Development Corp | Multifamily | 25 units1.36 acres | Recommended |
As of How we count
Common questions
- Is the board of adjustment the same as the planning commission?
- No, the planning commission reviews plans, rezonings, and subdivisions, while the board of adjustment decides variances and appeals. In some small places one body does both jobs.
- Are board of adjustment decisions final?
- Board of adjustment decisions are usually final at the local level. Appeals typically go to a state court rather than the city council, within a short deadline set by state law.
Rules vary by state, county, and city. These pages describe common practice, not legal advice.
See variance requests near you.
Pick Variance under Application Type to see the requests these boards hear.