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What You Should Do
Before starting any project, contact the Codes Department at 315-363-8460. This first step determines what permits and approvals are required by the City Code.
Be prepared to provide:
- Your name
- Property address
- Whether you are the owner, applicant, tenant, or property manager
- Owner consent (if applicable)
- How the property is currently used and how it will be used after the project
About the PCZBA
The Joint Zoning Board of Appeals/Planning Commission (PCZBA) handles all land use, planning, and zoning matters for the City of Oneida. Established in 2017, this combined board streamlines the application process and reduces approval timelines. All PCZBA meeting dates are listed on the City Calendar.
Zoning Permits Overview
Depending on your project, one or more of the following permits may be required. The Director of Planning or Code Enforcement Officer will determine what applies to your situation.
Area Variance (§190-5)
Allows exceptions to zoning dimensional or physical requirements (for example, setback distance). The PCZBA evaluates the benefit to the applicant against potential community impacts by considering:
- Neighborhood character
- Alternative options
- Variance size and significance
- Environmental or physical effects
- Whether the issue was self-created
Conditional Use Permit (§190-28)
Required when changing how a property is used within a zoning district. Ensures the new use aligns with zoning intent and neighborhood character. Also referred to as a “special use permit.”
Use Variance (§190-5B)
Authorizes a use not otherwise permitted by zoning. Approvals are rare and require the applicant to show:
- A reasonable return cannot be achieved without the variance
- The hardship is unique to the property
- The neighborhood character will not be altered
- The hardship was not self-created
FEE SCHEDULE
| Area Variance Application | $100 |
| Conditional Use Permit | $150 |
| Use Variance Application | $200 |
If you would like a complete copy of the Zoning Ordinance, send a check or money order payable to “City Clerk” for $14.00 plus $3.50 shipping and handling to:
City of Oneida Planning Department
109 N. Main Street
Oneida, NY 13421
PCZBA Applications
The Director of Planning makes the final determination on which applications are required. A Cover Sheet must be included for all separate projects submitted to the PCZBA.
Key Takeaway
Always begin your project by contacting the Codes Department. The Director of Planning or the appropriate enforcement officer will confirm the required permits, fees, and approvals needed for your specific project.
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