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Planning
& Zoning (P&Z) is the City Department which regulates
land use, development and zoning for all commercial and residential
property within the Burlington city limits. They administer
several types of permits and help interpret the zoning laws for people
planning to locate or expand a business in Burlington.
When do I need to contact P&Z? Now! A zoning permit may be required when you make interior or exterior modifications to a building, change the use of a building or simply put up a sign. If you are just starting a business (including home-based businesses), moving into a new commercial space, or making any significant changes in the type of business you are running, you should check with P&Z before you move forward. The P&Z staff want to help you avoid potential problems and wasted time. I found a space for my business, but I'm not sure whether the zoning is appropriate. You can find out by calling P&Z with the location's address. You may need a permit if you are converting the use of a space (e.g., office to retail, retail to manufacturing, residential to office, etc.). It may not be important if you are changing the products or services (e.g., clothing to home products), but it is important if the type of activity is changing. Call 802·865·7188 to find out.What if I am considering some scale changes to the exterior of the building? Bring a copy of your building plans to P&Z to determine if it is necessary to go through the Design Advisory Board. Some buildings may be protected as historic or may require approval of design changes. Design changes include signs on the outside of the building. What if your proposal requires construction work going on either inside or outside the building? If there will be any evidence of construction (trucks, noise, etc.) on your property, you will need a Building Permit from the Department of Public Works (802·863·9094) in addition to the P&Z permit.How long will it take to get a permit? In some cases, P&Z will determine that you do not need a permit, and will give you a "Determination of Non-Applicability." If you do need a permit, you may be able to get an "Administrative Approval," which can happen in several days, or you may have to go in front of the Development Review Board and/or the Design Advisory Board, which could take a few months. Whether it's 3 hours, 3 days or 3 months, the sooner you approach P&Z, the better you can plan to ensure you have the necessary permits before you begin operating! How much does a permit cost? Fees are based on the type of project. Call P&Z (802·865·7188) for current fees, including impact fees, specific to your project.I'm not sure if my space is handicapped accessible. The Americans with Disabilities Act requires certain building adaptations. Check with the Building Inspector in Public Works as early as possible, to make sure your space complies. In some situations - for example, where the costs of installing adaptive equipment is determined exorbitant - variances are issued by Public Works. What if I don't get approval for what I want to do? You are able to appeal the decision, possibly get waivers, or approach the Planning Commission about changing the zoning laws. Ask Planning & Zoning for details.P&Z's Design Review Guides are easy to understand, how-to guides on a variety of zoning design review topics. Reviewing applicable guides as you plan is a great idea. You can pick them up at P&Z's offices or online. Here is a partial list:
The Design Review Process |
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Advice Call Planning & Zoning (802·865·7188) and have a conversation about your project. Offices are located on the ground floor of City Hall.
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Can a Rhino get a permit? Call P&Z.
Advice You may be eligible for federal and state tax credits for handicap access improvements at your site. Call CEDO at 802·865·7187 for more information.
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Page last updated July 09, 2008
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