Before occupying a new building, or changing
the use of part or all of an existing building, or increasing the
number of dwelling units on the lot, or using a lot now vacant or
used for agriculture for any other purpose, or changing the use of
a lot from one nonagricultural purpose to another, the owner must
secure an occupancy permit from the Building Inspector.
[Amended 10-24-2000]
Where the proposed use of land or buildings is one classified in Article
III or elsewhere as allowable only by special permit, the owner shall secure a special permit from the Board of Appeals or other designated special permit granting authority before applying for building and occupancy permits. A special permit shall lapse if not exercised within two years as provided in MGL c. 40A, § 9.
[Amended 10-24-2000]
If an owner expects to be or is denied a permit
necessary under this bylaw, he may take the following actions as appropriate.
A. Appeal. If the denial of a permit is believed to be
due to an error in the interpretation of this bylaw, the owner may,
within 30 days of such denial, file a notice of appeal with the Town
Clerk, for transmittal to the Board of Appeals.
B. Variance: application and duration. If the owner believes
that literal application of this bylaw will cause a hardship unique
to his property, he may, before or after application for a building
permit; file an application for a variance with the Town Clerk for
transmittal to the Board of Appeals. If the rights authorized by a
variance are not exercised within one year of the date of granting,
they shall lapse.
C. Court appeal. Any person or any municipal officer
or board aggrieved by a decision of a municipal officer or board may,
in accordance with MGL c. 40A, § 17, appeal to the appropriate
court within 20 days after the decision has been filed with the Town
Clerk.