Application For Hearing Before The Zoning Hearing Board (Variance Request, Appeal of Zoning Admin Action, Special Exception Use)

Application for Hearing Before the Hollidaysburg Zoning Hearing Board

This is an official application form from The Borough of Hollidaysburg, PA, used to request a hearing before the Zoning Hearing Board. It is designed for applicants seeking variances, special exceptions, appeals of zoning administrator decisions, or approval to change non-conforming uses.

Purpose and Options

Applicants must check one of four boxes to specify their request:

• Variance: A waiver from Ordinance No. 644 (requires completing Sections I, II, and VI).
• Special Exception Use: Permitted under Ordinance No. 644 (requires Sections I, III, and VI).
• Appeal: Of a decision or action by the Zoning Administrator (requires Sections I, IV, and VI).
• Change of Non-Conforming Use: Approval to change one non-conforming use to another (requires Sections I, V, and VI).

Applicants are instructed to attach additional sheets if needed.

Required Information Sections

The form collects detailed information in three main categories:

I. INFORMATION (Continued on next page)

• Applicant Information: Name, street address, city/state/zip, phone.
• Owner Information: Same fields as applicant (if different).
• Property Information: Street address, city/state/zip.
• Zoning Classification: Present zoning classification of the affected real estate.
• Area Description: Brief description of the area where the property is located.
• Existing Improvements: Description of current buildings, structures, or improvements on the property.
• Present Use(s): Current use of the affected real estate.
• Proposed Changes: Detailed description of proposed improvements, additions, alterations, or changes in use. Applicants must also attach a plot plan showing lot size/location and existing/proposed changes.

II. VARIANCE APPLICATION SECTION

(Only required if requesting a variance)

• Specific Variance Requested: List each variance separately with detail.
• Ordinance Section: Identify the section of Ordinance 644 under which the variance may be allowed.
• Justification for Variance:
  • Describe unique physical circumstances (e.g., lot irregularity, topography) causing unnecessary hardship.
  • Explain how these conditions prevent strict compliance with the Zoning Ordinance.
  • Confirm whether the hardship was created by the applicant (if not, provide documentation).
  • Justify that the variance will not alter neighborhood character, impair adjacent property use, or harm public welfare.
  • Provide any additional justification not covered above.
• Minimum Variance Needed: Specify the least amount of relief required from the Zoning Ordinance.

Certification and Process (Section VI)

• Supplemental Sheets: Applicants must indicate if additional sheets were attached and how many. All attachments must be signed and dated.
• Certification Statement: The applicant certifies that all information is true and correct, and that they are authorized by the property owner (or are the owner) to submit the application.
• Signature and Date: Required at the bottom of the form.

Important Notes for Applicants

• A public hearing will be scheduled within 60 days of receiving a completed, signed application and all required fees.
• Notification of hearing date, time, and location will be sent via certified mail.
• The applicant or an authorized representative must attend the hearing to testify and answer questions.
• The Board will render a decision at a second public meeting within 45 days of the last hearing.
• Decisions can be appealed to the Court of Common Pleas of Blair County within 30 days of issuance.

Contact Information

• Address: 401 Blair Street, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
• Website: www.hollidaysburgpa.org
• Phone: (814) 695-7543
• Fax: (814) 696-0636
• TTY: (814) 696-0300

Note: The Borough was incorporated in 1836.