The purpose of the Zoning Board of Appeals is to hear cases for Variances, Special Permits and Comprehensive Permits.

Variances are cases where a petitioner is requesting a waiver of a zoning requirement. In cases where a hardship is determined to exist, the board may grant a variance from the requirements of the zoning ordinance allowing the project to proceed with the necessary relief.

A Special Permit is a request that is appropriate in some areas of the Cities but not in all areas. A determination of whether a proposal is detrimental to the public good must be made by the Board.