Board of Zoning Appeals — what it decides and when it meets

A seven-member board whose three powers derive from South Carolina's 1994 Comprehensive Planning Act. It hears and decides (1) appeals for variances 'from the requirements of the zoning ordinance when strict application of the provisions of the ordinance would result in unnecessary hardship' — the applicant must satisfy all four state-established hardship tests; (2) uses by Special Exception where designated within the zoning code, subject to the standards and conditions in the zoning ordinance; and (3) appeals 'where it is alleged there is an error in an order, requirement, decision or determination made by an administrative official.' Unlike the Planning Commission it DECIDES rather than recommends, and it does not rezone — a variance or special exception does not change a property's zoning district. It meets the last Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at the Municipal Complex, subject to the published annual schedule. Submittal deadline is 21 days before the meeting. An application for variance or special exception must attach an accurate, legible plot plan showing property dimensions and the locations of structures and improvements. Written correspondence must be received three business days prior to the meeting and is part of the public record, published with agendas and minutes. An oath is administered to all who speak. Decisions are issued as written Orders and posted to the Town's document center by case number (for example V-07-25).