New York State Real Estate Salesperson Licensing Exam

What is the primary role of the zoning board of appeals?

1. Drafts zoning regulations

2. Grants variances

3. Distributes building permits

4. Conducts public hearings on zoning

The correct answer is: Grants variances

The primary role of the zoning board of appeals is to grant variances. Variances are exceptions to the established zoning regulations that allow a landowner to deviate from the strict application of the zoning laws. This process typically involves evaluating individual circumstances where adhering to zoning regulations would impose an undue hardship or practical difficulty on the property owner. By granting variances, the zoning board provides a mechanism for ensuring that zoning laws are applied fairly while also accommodating unique situations that may not fit standard zoning rules. The board takes into account a variety of factors when making its decision, including the impact on surrounding properties and compliance with the overall character of the neighborhood. The other options, while related to zoning processes, do not accurately describe the primary function of the zoning board of appeals. Drafting zoning regulations is typically the responsibility of city or town planners and legislative bodies. Distributing building permits is a function of the building department, which is separate from the zoning board. Conducting public hearings on zoning can be a part of the overall process, but it is not the main focus of the zoning board of appeals, which is more specifically concerned with the granting of variances.