Board Applications
QUICK LINKS:
- Zoning Variance Application
- Site Development Plan Application
- Subdivision Application
- Architectural Review Application
Zoning Board of Appeals Overview
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is a five-member, Village-appointed board responsible for reviewing applications that do not strictly align with standard zoning regulations. The Board’s primary role is to evaluate requests for area variances (modifying dimensional rules like setbacks or lot sizes) and use variances (allowing unpermitted property uses due to proven financial hardship). In making its decisions, the ZBA carefully balances the benefit to the applicant against any potential impact on the neighborhood’s character, health, and safety, and it may apply specific conditions to protect the community. Additionally, the ZBA manages special use permits, oversees legally nonconforming property uses, and provides official interpretations of the zoning code. Please note that approved variances typically expire after one year if substantial construction has not begun, and applicants are responsible for all associated filing fees and administrative costs, such as legal and technical engineering review.
Planning Board Overview
The Planning Board is a five-member body established under New York State Village Law to review, evaluate, and decide upon various planning, land-use matters, and subdivisions referred to it by the Village Board of Trustees.
- When considering Site Development Plan Approval pursuant to Article XXII of the Village Code, the Planning Board carefully evaluates proposed projects to ensure they harmonize with surrounding neighborhoods and align with the Village Development Plan. The Board considers a wide range of factors, including the layout and architectural appearance of buildings, the safety of pedestrian and vehicular traffic, and the adequacy of parking and loading zones. Additionally, the Board reviews environmental elements, such as optimal solar access, shading, and landscaping. The goal of this review process is to protect the overall health, safety, and welfare of the community, encourage appropriate land use, and preserve local property values. To achieve these goals, the Board may approve applications with specific conditions, modifications, or safeguards to prevent any negative impacts on neighboring properties. The applicants are responsible for all associated filing fees and administrative costs, such as legal and technical engineering review. The Village Board of Trustees oversees this process in Business and Shopping Center Districts.
- When reviewing Subdivision Applications pursuant to Chapter 66 of the Village Code, The Planning Board reviews land subdivisions to ensure they contribute to the safe, orderly, and economical development of the community. All subdivided land must be physically suitable for building, free from environmental or safety hazards such as flooding or fire, and equipped with essential infrastructure, including proper drainage, water, and sewerage systems. Furthermore, the Board ensures that all new streets align with the Village’s Official Map and are appropriately sized and graded to safely accommodate future traffic, provide adequate light and air, and allow easy access for emergency and fire protection services. When appropriate, subdivision plans must also incorporate designated park areas and playgrounds to support local recreation and community well-being.
Committee of Architectural Review Overview
The Committee of Architectural Review is a five-member appointed body dedicated to protecting the aesthetic character and property values of the Village. The Committee evaluates the exterior design of new construction and specific alterations to existing structures to ensure proposed projects harmonize with their natural surroundings and neighboring properties. While originality and high-quality architectural design are highly encouraged, the Committee’s primary goal is to prevent development that is visually offensive, excessively monotonous, or starkly out of place, which could negatively impact the community’s economic stability and general welfare.
