Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA).

  • The Board of Zoning Appeals is a 5 -member body responsible for hearing appeals from individuals who are requesting exceptions or variations for City Ordinances in regard to land use and building requirements or from individuals appealing to decisions from the Architectural Design Review Board.

    Questions? Contact:

    Andrew J Schweier, Secretary (Planning & Zoning Specialist)

    Email: aj.schweier@hamilton-oh.gov | Phone: (513) 785-7373

  • Read the Board of Zoning Appeals Rules and Procedures/BZA By-Laws online.

    [Board of Zoning Appeals Rules & Procedures (PDF)]

  • The Board of Zoning Appeals meets the first Thursday of every month at 9:00 a.m. in City Council Chambers (345 High Street, Hamilton1 OH 45011).

    [BZA Meeting Calendar & Deadlines]

Variance Request.

The Hamilton Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) hears appeals for variances from the Hamilton Zoning Ordinance (HZO) provisions. A variance is a request for an exception to the zoning regulations.

Exceptions to the rules of the Zoning Ordinance can be allowed only when there are unique and exceptional circumstances related to a particular property. If strictly following the Zoning Ordinance would cause significant problems or unfairness, then exceptions might be considered. This is to ensure that the intention behind the Ordinance is respected, and that public safety and well-being are protected, while also ensuring fairness.

A variance of the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance shall not be authorized by the Board unless the Board finds that practical difficulties exist to justify a variance.

In making a determination to allow a variance, the Board considers and weighs the following factors:

  1. Will the property yield a reasonable return or can there be a beneficial use of the property without the Variance?

  2. Is the Variance substantial?

  3. Would the Variance cause a substantial alteration in the essential character of the neighborhood or cause a substantial detriment to the adjoining properties?

  4. Would the Variance adversely affect the delivery of governmental services?

  5. Did the property owners purchase the property with the knowledge of the zoning restriction?

  6. Could the problem be solved in some other manner other than the granting of the Variance?

  7. Would the Variance preserve the spirit and intent of the zoning requirement and substantial justice be done by granting the variance?

Upcoming BZA Meeting

Questions concerning upcoming meetings, cases, or other inquiries can be directed to the Planning Department.

Email: planning@hamilton-oh.gov | Phone: (513) 785-7350

Agenda & Minutes