Zoning Board of Appeals

Meetings

• First Wednesday of the month (subject to pending business)
• 7:15 p.m. 
• ZBA Meeting & Public Hearing Guidelines for public input

Agendas & Minutes

Official meeting agendas are posted at least 2 business days prior, although public hearing notices are posted at least 2 weeks in advance.

Most Recent Agenda | View All Agendas & Minutes

Members

Overview

The Zoning Board of Appeals is a citizen panel consisting of three members and two alternates appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. Established and acting under the Zoning Ordinance and M.G.L. Chapter 40A, it hears (1) appeals of administrative zoning actions and interpretations; (2) petitions for variance relief where the ordinance would impose a substantial hardship due to a property's unique conditions; and (3) requests for certain special permits and site plan approvals. The Board gives due consideration to promoting the public health, safety, convenience and welfare, encouraging the most appropriate use of land and conserving property values. It will permit no use or condition which is injurious, noxious, offensive or detrimental to a neighborhood, nor will it allow zoning relief which would nullify or substantially derogate from the intent or purpose of the ordinance. The Board is not an enforcement body; contact the Building Department regarding any concerns with zoning compliance.

Applications & Correspondence

Application submissions, correspondence and other business of the Board are coordinated by the Planning Department (mailing address: 59 Court Street, Suite 300, Westfield, MA 01085). Applicants should understand the Board's procedures and requirements for Special Permits and Variances . Public input is invited on any petition, in person or in writing, prior to the close of the public hearing. File an application or View all pending petitions.