board of appeals (zoning)

The Board of Appeals also known as the Zoning Board of Appeals, assists in the administration of the City’s Zoning ordinance by reviewing decisions of the Building Inspector, approving conditional uses and granting variances. The Board functions in a quasi-judicial capacity and members must be able to hold public hearings, make findings of fact and conclusions of law based upon applicable state and local zoning laws, and issue written decisions setting forth their findings and conclusions.

Board Members

Peter Coyne
Dave Dore
Jill Hunter
Deborah Rutter
Philip Saucier
Gordon Smith
Peter Thornton

Application Process

For your convenience, the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule also includes the deadline schedule for submissions.

In order to hold your place on the agenda you are required to submit eleven (11) separate packets of the following materials:

• Copy of Appeal application.
• Cover letter addressed to the Zoning Board of Appeals stating what you would like to do.
• Plot plan showing the site and location of all structures, existing and proposed, in relation to the lot lines and, if applicable, indicate parking. Lot size and setback dimensions must be shown.
• Floor plan, if applicable, showing dimensions of existing and proposed rooms and/or structures.
• Copy of the tax map (obtained in the Assessors Office) with the property highlighted.
• Photos of property.
• Deed, sales agreement, lease or intent to lease.
• Owner, lessee, prospective purchase or legal representation must sign the application
• A letter from the property owner giving permission to the applicant to represent the property if applicable.
• All plans must also be folded neatly with each packet and banded.

If additional information is needed to complete the packet for the Zoning Board of Appeals you will be notified. Please make sure you include a contact phone number on your cover letter. If we cannot contact you, the item may be tabled until the next regular meeting.

Application Fees

The application fee is $100.00 to appear before the Zoning Board of Appeals. Please note that the applicant is also responsible for the cost of the legal ad in the Portland Press Herald, and the cost of sending abutters notification within 500’ of the subject property. The City will bill you for the legal ad and abutter’s notification.

You may apply for an appeal/permit at City Hall, Room 315 Monday through Friday between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm. If you choose to file on the deadline date, please note that applications are accepted only until noon on that day. You will be sent a letter confirming the time and date of the scheduled meeting along with an Agenda.

Zoning Board of Appeals
2006 Meeting Schedule

The Board meets on Thursdays, 7:00 pm
Room #209, Portland City Hall 

Contact Us

For more information visit the City’s Zoning Administration Office on-line or

or stop by the office

Inspection’s Office
Room 315, Portland City Hall

Or call
(207) 874- 8703