Legal Definitions - special-use permit

A special-use permit is a permission granted by a zoning board that allows a property owner to use their property in a way that is not typically allowed by the zoning ordinance. This type of permit is also known as a conditional-use permit or special permit.

Unlike a variance, which is a deviation from the zoning ordinance, a special-use permit is a permitted exception. This means that the property owner must meet certain conditions and requirements in order to be granted the permit.

Here are some examples of situations where a special-use permit may be required:

• A homeowner wants to operate a daycare center out of their home.
• A business owner wants to open a restaurant in a residential area.
• A church wants to build a new building in a commercial zone.

In each of these examples, the proposed use of the property is not allowed under the current zoning ordinance. However, if the property owner can demonstrate that their proposed use will not negatively impact the surrounding area and meets certain requirements, they may be granted a special-use permit.