Zoning
Compliance with Comprehensive Plan
The use of land within the Township must comply with a Zoning Ordinance, developed by the Comprehensive Plan. The Zoning Ordinance specifically identifies benefits of land and the districts within which these uses are permitted. Zoning districts are geographically plotted, based upon municipal needs, on the official map of the Township. The Zoning Ordinance also contains provisions for the variance of its specific terms and conditions based upon a hardship running with the land that the property owner has not created.
The Township’s Zoning Hearing Board hears zoning Variance applications. This Board is a five-member quasi-judicial body appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The Zoning Hearing Board also hears appeals and renders decisions on permit applications that have been denied by the Zoning and Codes Officer. Zoning Hearing Board Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of each month.
In its review of applications for a zoning variance, the Zoning Hearing Board must determine if the literal enforcement of the ordinance will result in an undue hardship upon the property owner based upon the following criteria:
1. There are unique physical circumstances or conditions peculiar to the property.
2. Due to the physical circumstances or conditions, there is no possibility that the property can be developed in strict conformance with the Zoning Ordinance.
3. The property owner has not created the hardship.
4. The variance, if approved, will not alter the neighborhood's essential character.
5. The variance, if approved, will represent the minimum relief necessary to afford relief from the hardship.
