Zoning and Building Permits
In Massachusetts, when a property owner wishes to build an addition onto his or her property, or build a new house on a vacant lot, they are required to comply with local zoning laws and regulations before being issued a Building Permit by their city or town. Zoning laws are local in Massachusetts (meaning they differ from community to community) and they govern what can and cannot be built on property in a given city or town. These laws can be very complex, and they determine who is, and who is not, entitled to Building Permits to build on their property. Many property owners own land that, for a variety of reasons, does not conform to current zoning regulations, and hence, their application for a Building Permit will be denied. In order to receive a permit to construct whatever it is they wish, they must petition for what is known as a "Special Permit" before a body known as the Zoning Board of Appeals ("ZBA") in their city or town. This is very common.
Unfortunately, this process can be extremely complicated. For someone who has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in property that they wish to improve through construction, the stakes are very high. Persons who are required to seek Building Permits from their city or town, are advised to seek the counsel and direction of an attorney experienced in zoning law. Our firm is experienced in the intricacies of appeals filed before local Zoning Boards of Appeal, and we can guide you through this complicated process. Contact us for a free consultation.