Someone who wants a permit may try to convince the Planning Board to change its zoning in order to allow the new or changed use of the land. When this happens, citizens or businesses in the area will sometimes protest. For example, a farmer might want to sell his land to someone who wants to develop it into a landfill. Perhaps there is a strong need for a landfill in the area, and to promote the health and general welfare of the community, the Planning Board decides to change the zoning to allow for this new use. Others living in the area may protest, claiming that their own health, safety and general welfare will be affected by the presence of a landfill. Occasionally, someone may seek a variance of the zoning regulations for a special purpose. For example, a homeowner may want to have a business in his or her home, hire one employee, and put a small sign out front. If the area is designated for residential purposes only, the Board of Adjustments may issue a variance, as this use does not affect the nature of the neighborhood, or affect the health, safety, morals or general welfare of the people living in it.
