Zoning Board of Appeals

Zoning Board of Appeals authorizes use in a zoning district in which it is not otherwise permitted, provided it is clearly shown that the land cannot be utilized for a zoned use. The board is empowered to act on matters where zoning ordinances provide for administrative review, interpretation, exception or special approval permit, and to author a variance as defined in section 3104 of the Zoning Ordinance and Laws of the State of Michigan.

The following qualifications and areas of expertise are ideal for this position:

• Registered Voter (Required)
• Architecture
• Construction
• Land Use Planning
• Real Estate Development/Law

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is comprised of seven members, and one or more alternate members, consisting of residents of the City of Novi and appointed by the Novi City Council.  The ZBA is asked to carry out two principal functions: to hear and decide appeals of administrative decisions made in implementing the Zoning Ordinance; and to hear and decide requests for variances from the strict terms of the Zoning Ordinance. In addition, the ZBA is occasionally called upon to interpret the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance or consider a use variance request.  Specific responsibilities of the ZBA can be found in Section 7.10 of the Zoning Ordinance and Laws of the State of Michigan.