Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is composed of a three members serving staggered three-year terms, with three alternates that are appointed yearly. The ZBA is a quasi-judicial body that operates under the authority of Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Laws for the purpose of promoting health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the Town of Harvard. Applicants who want to develop their land for residential, commercial or other purposes submit requests for special permits to the ZBA. The ZBA reviews requests for variances submitted to the Board by applicants who want an exemption to the Protective Bylaw, Chapter 125, in order to use their land in a particular way. The ZBA reviews requests submitted to the Board by residents or business owners who are aggrieved by a decision of the Building Commissioner. The ZBA also reviews request for comprehensive permits submitted to the Board under Chapter 40B by developers who wish to create affordable housing.