Which entity is responsible for granting a Special Exception for a permitted use?

The Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) is the entity responsible for granting a Special Exception for a permitted use. In zoning laws, a Special Exception allows certain uses that may not be permitted by right under the existing zoning regulations but can be justified under specific circumstances. The BZA evaluates the criteria specified in the zoning regulations and makes decisions on whether to grant these exceptions based on the evidence presented, which often includes public input and considerations of the surrounding area’s character.

The BZA plays a crucial role in the zoning process in the District of Columbia, as it provides a mechanism for flexibility in land use, thereby allowing for community needs and concerns to be addressed while still adhering to the overarching zoning objectives. This ensures that developments are consistent with the overall planning goals for the district, balancing the interests of property owners with community welfare.

Other entities listed, such as the District of Columbia Zoning Commission, the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, and the City Council, have distinct roles within the zoning and regulatory landscape but are not directly responsible for the granting of Special Exceptions. The Zoning Commission primarily focuses on zoning map amendments and text amendments, while the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs oversees building permits and inspections, and the City Council focuses on legislative functions