THE PURPOSE OF EACH BOARD

 The five-member Zoning Commission hears proposals concerning new housing developments and amendments made to the current Zoning Code. Residents wishing to change the zoning district of their property must present their case to the Commission. The Commission follows a number of steps to decide the outcome of the request. Once the Commission members vote on a proposal, the situation is heard by the Township Trustees. They will, at this time, affirm to the Commission or overturn their decision.
 The Franklin Township Zoning Board of Appeals (BZA) hears requests for variances. These requests are made by individuals who wish to vary from the Zoning Code restrictions on a particular parcel of land. There are two types of variances: area variances (those authorizing departures from yard and height restrictions) and use variances (those authorizing uses not expressly permitted by the Code.)

Zoning News
 You can now download an application for zoning with instructions and fill it out and mail it to the Zoning Office. Check it out on our new website.
 The building season is slowing down in preparation for the winter months. If residents are planning construction so that inside work can be done during the winter, they need to begin the application process soon. This is necessary in case there are problems. If the application is turned down by the Zoning Inspector, the applicants may wish to apply for a possible variance. This will make the process a little longer.
 If an appeal is requested, the Franklin Township Board of Zoning Appeals meets the first and third Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m., on an as needed basis. Applicants need to look at their situation to see if changing their plans will enable them to accomplish what they desire without the need for a variance. The Broad of Appeals looks very closely at each situation before making a decision. Each variance is handled on a case by case basis. One cannot, and should not, assume their variance will be granted. The Board looks very closely to be certain that each individual’s situation is handled to the best of their ability. Everyone will be treated fairly. The Board looks forward to helping individuals with their problems.
 The voters will be asked to cast their ballot either for or against the revision of the current zoning code in the November election. If the referendum vote is in the affirmative, the new rules will go into effect immediately. This will mean that those wishing to build will need to work carefully with the Zoning Inspector, the Zoning Commission, and the Board of Zoning Appeals. The inspector and each board looks forward to working with the public no matter the outcome of the vote.