The Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) is an independent, quasi-judicial body. It is empowered to grant relief from the strict application of the Zoning Regulations (variances), approve certain uses of land (special exceptions), and hear appeals of actions taken by the Zoning Administrator at the Department of Buildings. The Board's five members consist of three Mayoral appointees, a rotating member of the District of Columbia Zoning Commission, and a designated representative of the National Capital Planning Commission. In cases where the Board is performing functions regarding Foreign Mission and Chancery applications, the composition of the Board shall consist of the three Mayoral appointees, the Director of the U.S. National Park Service or his designee, and the Executive Director of the National Capital Planning Commission.
Learn more about the history of zoning in the District of Columbia.
For more information on BZA-related items, please see the links below:
- Variance
- Special Exception
- Appeals
- Modification With Hearing
- Modification Without Hearing
- Foreign Missions
The BZA members are as follows:
- Vacant - Chairperson Appointee
- Carl H. Blake - District Resident Appointee
- Vacant - District Resident Appointee
- Brittney Drakeford, National Capital Planning Commission Designee
- Zoning Commission member in rotation
Public Hearings and Meetings are held on Wednesdays beginning at 9:30 am, virtually. For more information on virtual hearings and meetings, click here.
The BZA Schedule and Agenda are available on the BZA Calendar. Please note that Public Hearing Notices for all cases before the BZA are published in the District of Columbia Register.
Current Board of Zoning Adjustment Members:
