A public hearing is intended to allow the petitioner the opportunity to describe their proposed project and interested parties the opportunity to share their concerns with the reviewing authority. While all public comments are welcome, speakers should focus on those elements of the project that are within the review authority's scope of authority. Consistent with established policies, public comments may be limited in duration to make sure everyone can be heard.

No. The members on the Board of Appeals are similar in many respects to a judge. They hear and evaluate evidence in a public forum and render a decision within the context of local, state, and, in some cases, federal law. This is referred to as a "quasi-judicial" decision. It is not proper for anyone - the applicant, a proponent, or an opponent - to contact a board member regarding a potential or pending application. Because these private conversations, referred to as "ex parte communication" should not occur, all parties can be assured of an unbiased proceeding, even if they do not agree with the outcome.

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

Yes. All rules and regulations that apply to nonconforming structures will apply.

Variances run with the land. This means that a variance will continue in effect as the property is transferred from one owner to the next. All terms and conditions of the variance remain unchanged and apply to all subsequent property owners.

Not necessarily. The Board of Appeals must apply a set of criteria based on the particular circumstances of the request. Because no two zoning cases are exactly the same, the outcomes may be quite different. 

Application fees are not refundable. They are intended to cover the costs necessary to review the application.