GLOSSARY

A

• After-the-Fact Permit: A permit that is applied for after a project or activity has already commenced without the necessary authorization, often subject to additional scrutiny and possible fines or penalties.
• Appeal: A formal request for a review of a decision made by a governmental body, often regarding permit denials or code enforcement actions.

B

• Building Permit: A legal authorization required before construction, renovation, or alteration of a building or structure can begin, ensuring compliance with local building codes and zoning laws.

C

• Code Enforcement: The process by which local governments ensure compliance with laws and regulations, often related to property maintenance, zoning, and building codes.
• Conditional Use Permit: A special permit granted for a land use that is not typically allowed in a zoning district but may be permitted under specific conditions.

D

• Development Agreement: A contract between a local government and a developer that outlines the terms and conditions for a specific development project.

E

• Environmental Permit: A permit required for activities that may impact the environment, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal environmental regulations.

F

• Fee Schedule: A list of fees associated with various permits and services provided by local governments, often updated annually.

G

• Garage Sale Permit: A permit required by some municipalities for residents to hold garage sales, ensuring compliance with local regulations regarding sales and signage.

N

• Notification: The process of informing residents or stakeholders about upcoming meetings, changes in regulations, or actions taken by local government, often through mail, email, or public postings.
• Notice of Violation: A formal communication issued by a government authority to notify a property owner of non-compliance with ordinances or regulations, often providing a timeframe for corrective action.

O

• Ordinance: A law or regulation enacted by a local government authority, typically governing land use, public safety, or community standards.
• Over-the-Counter Permit: A permit that can be issued immediately or on the same day it is applied for, often for minor projects or activities.

P

• Permit: A legal document that grants permission to perform a specific activity, such as construction, signage, or public events, in accordance with local regulations.
• Public Hearing: A meeting held by a governmental body to gather input from the community on proposed ordinances, projects, or permits, allowing for public participation in the decision-making process.
• Public Event Permit: A permit required for organizing events that take place in public spaces, ensuring compliance with safety, health, and zoning regulations.

R

• Renewal: The process of extending the validity of an existing permit, typically requiring an application and possibly a fee, to continue the permitted activity legally.

S

• Sign Permit: A permit required for the installation or modification of signs, ensuring compliance with local zoning and signage regulations.
• Special Use Permit: A type of permit that allows a specific use of land that is not typically permitted in a zoning district, often subject to specific conditions.

T

• Temporary Use Permit: A permit that allows for a temporary activity or use of land, such as a seasonal event or market, usually with a specified duration.

Z

• Zoning: The division of land in a municipality into zones, each with specific regulations regarding land use, building types, and density.
• Zoning Ordinance: A regulation that defines how property in specific geographic zones can be used, including restrictions on building types and land uses.