Board of Zoning Adjustment

Total public members:                3         

Method of Appointment:             Appointed by Mayor, confirmed by Council    

Length of Appointment:              3 years

Residency:                                  Strong preference for DC residents from all 8 wards

Paid board:                                Yes

Description:

The Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) is an independent, quasi-judicial body. It is empowered to grant relief from the strict application of the Zoning Regulations (variances), approve certain uses of land (special exceptions), and hear appeals of actions taken by the Zoning Administrator at DCRA. 

Commission membership: 

The board consists of 5 members, including:  3 appointed by the Mayor who have interest and experience in economic development and/or zoning;1 designee from the National Capital Planning Commission; 1 designee from the District of Columbia Zoning Commission 

Qualification:

District of Columbia resident for at least 3 years immediately preceding his/her appointment with interest and experience in economic development and/or zoning, and at least 1 of the Mayoral appointments must own their own home.