There are many Zoning Codes that are set up by the Town that regulate how our town will look. Zoning codes plan where farming, industry and residential areas will occur in the town. They protect Bristol residents from having their neighborhood character adversely affected from an undesireable use of nearby properties.

It is a common misconception that the Zoning Board is the creator of regulations. The Zoning Board does not create any of the laws or regulations for building and property use. These laws are created by other Town Boards.

So, what exactly does the Zoning Board do? When a Bristol resident wants to do something with their property that is outside the existing regulations, they must take their case to the Zoning Board; they must request a use or area variance. A variance is official permission to "vary" from the existing law. The most common variance requests that the Zoning Board gets deal with setbacks, or how far back from the property line houses or outbuildings should be, and the uses allowed in various zones.

It is another misconception that the Zoning Board uses a combination of a rather elusive skill set to decide whether to grant the variance. Some think that the basis for decisions include good judgement, terrible judgement, personal opinion, family influence, fancy design tastes, and examples from other towns ...... just to cover the short list. nothing could be further from the truth.

The Zoning Board is given a 4-5 point criteria from the State of New York that outlines what qualifications must exist for a zoning variance to be granted. Then potential impact on the environment must be measured. It is the job of the Zoning Board to evaluate the information supplied by the applicant and determine if the 4-5 points in the criteria are satisfied. Only if the applicant meets the criteria, and passes the environmental assessment will a variance be granted. Easy and clear decisions? No, definitely not! We work hard to make sure that all are served in the best way possible. It is a challenging process for the Zoning Board to consider all facts and make the best decision for the towm.

If you ever find yourself preparing to request a zoning variance, the decision criteria that we use appears on your application. Environmental assessment forms are included where required. So often applications are partially filled out, or vague and unclear. Fill them out thoroughly and completely. Put thought into consistant and clear information. You are giving us the tools to determine whether you meet the criteria for a variance. We can't do our best work for you without quality information.

The Zoning Board of Appeals meets the second Tuesday of each month at the Bristol Town Hall at 7 pm. Come just to listen, or bring feedback on current applications. All are welcomed to join us.