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1. How much does an application cost?

That depends on the type of application being submitted. The fee schedule is posted on the ZBA’s website and may be found in the Southold Town Code. For questions please contact our office and we will be happy to assist you.

2. What happens after I submit my completed application to the ZBA?

Once an application is deemed complete by the office staff, it is scheduled for a public hearing, usually within four to six weeks from the completed filing. The ZBA office will contact you to confirm the date and time of your public hearing which will take place in the Meeting Hall of Southold Town Hall located at 53095 Main Road in Southold. Once calendared, our Department will provide further instructions and a copy of the official legal notice which we will publish in the local newspaper, a yellow sign for you to post on your property notifying the public of the date and time of your hearing, and an area map showing the surrounding lots near your property that will require a certified mail notice from you with a cover letter. Prior to the public hearing each Board of Appeals member will receive and review a copy of your application and will make a personal inspection of your property. If an interior inspection is required, our office will call to arrange a convenient time. During the hearing, you or your agent will be asked to present your case to the Board and answer Board members’ questions. You will also be given a chance to address any testimony or letters from objecting neighbors.

3. Why do I have to submit 9 copies of my completed application?

Prior to a public hearing, the ZBA office sends a copy of your application to relevant interdepartmental and outside agencies for their review and comments and provides personal copies to the ZBA’s legal counsel and to each of the five Members of the Board of Appeals.

4. Is it necessary to hire an expert to represent me?

In most cases, applicants can represent themselves. However, in the case of a use variance, waiver of lot merger, or very complex application, it is advisable to consult a land use specialist such as an attorney, architect, engineer or environmental consultant.

5. How long does it take for the Board of Appeals to make a decision and what happens after that?

Once a public hearing has been held and the application is closed, the Board has 62 days to render a decision. Most applications are decided at the next scheduled Special Meeting, which is usually two weeks after the public hearing. (The applicant may call the office the day after the Special Meeting to inquire about the results of the Board’s deliberations). Once a decision is rendered, a copy of the decision is sent to the applicant or agent. If it is an approval, the applicant then proceeds to the Building Department to obtain a building permit. If it is a denial, the applicant has the right to appeal to a higher court by filing an Article 78 within 30 days from the date the decision is filed with the Town Clerk’s office.