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Last Updated: April 15, 2011 |
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What is the Board of Zoning Appeals?
This Board of Zoning Appeals is established by the City Zoning
Ordinance and the Code of Virginia (15.1-0000) and consists of five
Hopewell citizens recommended by the City Council, and appointed by the
Circuit Court Judge. The purpose of the Board is to hear and
decide appeals from any order, requirement, decision or determination
made in the administration or enforcement of the City Zoning Ordinance
or of any ordinance adopted pursuant thereto. And to authorized
such variance from the terms of the ordinance as will not be contrary
to the public interest when, owing to special conditions, a literal
enforcement of the provision will result in unnecessary hardship;
provided that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed and
substantial justice done.
The Board also hears and decides appeals from the decision of the
Zoning Administrator, applications for interpretation of the Zoning
District Map where there is uncertainty as to the location of a
district boundary, special use permits, and special exceptions.
They have the power to impose conditions relating to the use for which
a permit is granted as it may deem necessary in the public interest and
may require a guarantee or bond to insure that the conditions imposed
are being and will continue to be complied with.
When would the Board become involved with my property and me?
Any person aggrieved by any decision of the Zoning Administrator may
appeal to the Board. Such appeals shall be taken within thirty
(30) days after the decision appealed from. In addition, any
property owner or representative may request a variance from the
requirements of the Zoning Ordinance (ie, setback) from the Board of
Zoning Appeals.
What are the Board of Zoning Appeal's Procedures?
Appeals shall be mailed to the Board of Zoning Appeals in care of the
Zoning Administrator, and a copy of the appeal mailed to the secretary
of the planning commission. A third copy shall be mailed to the
individual, official, department, or agency concerned, if any.
Appeals requiring an advertised public hearing shall be accompanied by
a certified check for one hundred dollars ($100), payable to the
treasurer.
In exercising it's powers, the Board may reverse or affirm, wholly or
partly, or modify the order, requirements, decision, or determination
of any administrative officer. Or it may decide in favor of the
applicant on any matter upon which it is required.
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