Some Key Differences Between Legislative

and Quasi-Judicial Zoning Decisions

 

 

Legislative

Quasi-Judicial

Decision-maker

Only governing board can decide (others may advise)

Can be board of adjustment, planning board, or governing board

Notice of hearing

Newspaper and mailed notice to owners and neighbors required

Only notice to parties required unless ordinance mandates otherwise

Type of hearing

Legislative

Evidentiary

Speakers at hearings

Can reasonably limit number of speakers, time for speakers

Witnesses are presenting testimony, can limit to relevant evidence that is not repetitious

Evidence

None required; members free to discuss issue outside of hearing

Written findings of fact required

Voting

Simply majority, but ¾ required if protest petition filed or rezoning

4/5 to decide in favor of applicant, but if special/conditional use permit is issued by governing board, only a simple majority required

Standard for decision

Creates standard

Can only apply standards previously set in ordinance

Conditions

Not allowed

Allowed if based on standard in ordinance

Time to initiate judicial

Two months to file challenge

30 days to file challenge

Conflict of interest

Requires direct financial interests

Any financial interest or personal bias disqualifies

Creation of vested right

None

Yes, if substantial expenditures are made in reliance on it

                                                                Source: David Owens, Institute of Government