Zoning Board of Appeals

Meetings

• 7 pm
• 4th Tuesday of every month 
• Old Town Hall
  1111 Somerset Avenue
  Upper Level
  Dighton, MA 02715

Zoning Enforcement

For all zoning enforcement matters, please email the Zoning Enforcement Officer James D. Aguiar, Jr.

Applications

Applications for Variances, Special Permits, or Appeals of the Zoning Board of Appeals should be submitted 4 weeks in advance of the next regular meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Special Permits

Uses allowed by special permit where community input and a review of the specific project is desired. The uses must be in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the bylaw, and may be subject to general or specific conditions set forth therein.

Variances

The board's authority to grant a variance is limited to cases where the Board finds that owing to the circumstances relating to the soil conditions, shape, or topography of the land or structures and especially affecting such, but not affecting generally the zoning district in which it is located, a literal enforcement of the provisions of the bylaw would involve substantial hardship; also desirable relief may be granted without substantial detriment to the public good and without substantially derogating from the intent or purpose of the bylaw.

Appeals

The board acts as a quasi-judicial body and determines whether the decision or order is legally correct. Persons aggrieved by inability to obtain a building permit or enforcement action from the Building Commissioner may appeal to the Zoning Board of Appeals within 30 days of the Building Commissioner's action.

Comprehensive Permits (Chapter 40B)

Massachusetts General Law (M.G.L.) Chapter 40B enables the local Zoning Board of Appeals, in consultation with other local boards and officials, to grant a single permit to an eligible developer proposing state or federally subsidized low or moderate income housing at a density greater than allowed by local zoning. The board may override local requirements and regulations that are inconsistent with affordable housing needs if environmental and planning concerns have been addressed.

Accommodations

Individuals seeking specific accommodations for a disability including but not limited to auxiliary aids, services, or materials should contact the Town's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator.