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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. It administers
several types of permits and helps 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), 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. All the information and forms needed can be found at www.ci.burlington.vt.us/planning. "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). 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 small changes to the exterior of the building?" Bring a photograph of the building and a copy of your building plans (if available) to P&Z to determine if it is necessary to go through the design review process. 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 my proposal requires construction or other work inside or outside the building?" In most cases, 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 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 generally takes 3-4 weeks. For a larger project 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 three hours, three days or three 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. Visit the website 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. A zoning permit will still be needed. 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 their offices in City Hall or visit them online. There are twenty guides available. 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.
Can I hang scissors on my building?
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How about a Rhino?
Advice You may be eligible for federal and state tax credits for handicap access improvements at your site. Call CEDO at (802) 865·7587 for more information.
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Page last updated July 07, 2010
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