Zoning Board of Appeals

Members: 

Stephen M. Nolan, Chair

Charles H. Peck, Member

John J. McNicholas, Member

Douglas C. Boyer, Associate Member

William McNiff, Associate Member

Michael W. Whitcher, Associate Member

Correspondence for Board members may be submitted to: sraposa@medfield.net or ZBA, 459 Main Street, Medfield, MA 02052

Overview

Members

The Board of Appeals for Zoning (ZBA), as defined by Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 40A, consists of three members and three associate members, who participate in hearings if regular members are absent. One member is appointed by the Selectmen annually for a three-year term.

Responsiblities

The Board of Appeals reviews questions which concern the Zoning Bylaws and the Building Code. A property owner denied a permit or wishing to contest a decision of the Building Inspector may bring an appeal to the Board. A public hearing is held at which abutters and/or other interested parties may speak on the issue. Decisions of the ZBA are final unless the petitioner takes the matter to the Superior Court. The Building Inspector has authority to enforce decisions of the Board of Appeals.

Zoning Bylaw

The Zoning Bylaw of the town, in many instances, states that a certain usage of land or a building is permitted within a given zoned area "with the approval of the Board of Appeals." Under certain conditions a resident may operate a business from home with the approval of the Board of Appeals.