The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) was create to provide relief from zoning requirements when there are unique circumstances preventing a property from conforming to the strict letter of Dearborn’s Zoning Ordinance.

The ZBA has been empowered to:

1. Interpret the Zoning Districts Map where the street layout shown on the map varies from actual conditions.
   
2. Interpret the exact location of a boundary line between zoning districts shown on the map.
   
3. Grant variances from off-street parking or loading space requirements, upon finding that such variances will not result in a parking or loading space deficiency or otherwise be inconsistent with the intent of such requirements.
   
4. Grant variances from yard and bulk regulations, including height, lot area, yard setback, floor area, and lot width regulations, where there are unique circumstances on the lot such that the lot cannot reasonably be put to a conforming use. In deciding upon such variances, the ZBA shall first determine that sufficient area exists for an adequate storm water drainage, water supply, and septic system, if necessary.
   
5. Grant variances from the site plan review requirements where the ZBA finds that the requirements would cause practical difficulties or unnecessary hardship due to the unique conditions on the site.
   
6. Grant variances made necessary by the advances of technology being put to use in new developments, but not anticipated by the provisions of this ordinance.

Regular meetings of the Zoning Board of Appeals are typically scheduled on the third or fourth Thursday of each month (except December) and are conducted in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

• ZBA Information and Sample Completed Application
  
• ZBA Application
  
• ZBA Meeting Legal Notices
  
• ZBA Meeting Minutes