Unified development review

A.  Unified development review authorizes the planning board, rather than the zoning board of review, to approve variances and special use permits that are requested concurrently with an application for approval of a development plan, subdivision, or land development project.

B.  An applicant for development plan approval, subdivision approval, or land development project approval may request unified development review by submitting an application form for zoning relief with the application for development approval. The procedure for review and approval under unified development is contained in the land development and subdivision regulations.

C.  When considering an application for zoning relief, the planning board is bound by the same legal requirements and the same criteria for relief that would apply to the zoning board of review’s consideration of applications. The planning board shall conduct a public hearing, shall take testimony under oath, and shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law. The planning board’s decision on the zoning relief shall be conditional on its approval of the development project.

D.  An appeal from a decision by the planning board on a variance or special use permit may be taken pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-23-71.

E. The administrative officer shall have the authority to require the submission of a checklist for unified development review. This checklist shall be approved by the Planning Board.

(Ord. dated 5-21-24)

REFERENCES

R.I. Gen. Laws §§ 45-23-50.1, 45-24-46.4.