East Granby Land Use Development Procedures

General Overview:

East Granby’s development process focuses on concept discussions up-front followed by engineering reviews, so that most issues have already been resolved by the time an application is filed. A project can receive approvals in as little as four weeks. Approval times vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project.

Staff Review:

The Town Planner/Engineer organizes staff reviews on an as-needed basis at a time convenient to applicants. It is strongly suggested that applicants contact the Town Planner/Engineer early in the plan development so that proper guidance can be given saving the developer time and money in the long run. Generally, applicants will meet with the Town Planner/Engineer and go over project plans and requirements and receive professional feedback. When necessary, the Town Planner/Engineer will call in the Fire Marshal and/or the Building Official to discuss aspects of the projects. There are no fees or forms associated with the staff review process.

Contact person:  Charles V. Francis, Town Planner/Engineer  860-653-3444

The Economic Development Commission:

The Economic Development Commission (EDC) encourages appropriate development in the community. The EDC also promotes the use of industrial land located at the eastern side of town, close to Bradley International Airport as well as promoting small business development in the Town Center and other commercially zoned areas that will enhance the business environment. The EDC meets on the fourth Monday of each month (except in the summer) at 7:30 PM in Town Hall. Applicants often visit the EDC seeking endorsement of a project that may be helpful in securing approvals from the regulatory boards in the community. There are no fees or forms associated with EDC review of projects.

Contact person:  Robert Sproat, Economic Development Officer  860-413-9371

Water and Sewage:

Prior to applying to any commission, where applicable, applicants must obtain public health approval to assure adequate water and sewerage at the site. In areas served by public sewer, applicants must request approval through application to the Water Pollution Control Authority. The Town Planner/Engineer will oversee and comment on this step in his reports to the commissions. The WPCA is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the town-owned Sewer Treatment Plant and Collection System. Sewer service provided by the WPCA is similar to other public services, such as, gas, water or electricity. The cost of providing that service is borne by those who use the public sewer system.

Contact person:  Charles V. Francis, Town Planner Engineer  860-653-3444

In areas not served by the WPCA, applicants must request approval through application to the Farmington Valley Health District in Avon.

Contact person:  Kristin Kula, Sanitarian  860-676-1953

Conservation Commission:

The Conservation Commission reviews all proposals for development to ensure that environmental impacts are minimized. Conservation Commission approval is required prior to a decision by the Planning & Zoning Commission. The Conservation Commission meets on the first Wednesday of each month and requires specific plans and specifications as part of the application process.

Contact person:  Charles V. Francis, Town Planner/Engineer  860-653-3444

Planning & Zoning Commission:

The Planning & Zoning Commission (PZC) reviews all site plans for commercial and industrial development, residential subdivisions and other specialized uses. All uses by special permit require a public hearing. The Commission meets on the first and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 PM in Town Hall.

Contact person:  Charles V. Francis, Town Planner/Engineer  860-653-3444

Zoning Board of Appeals:

On rare occasions, an application may also need to be made to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) when a zoning variance is required. The ZBA meets on the third Tuesday of the month as necessary.

Contact person:  Lincoln B. White, Zoning Enforcement Officer  860-653-3444

Building Permitting:

To apply for a Building Permit, one must fill out an application and, in addition, submit sketches, building drawings and plans or other applicable documents for review. If all paperwork is in order, the majority of applications are processed without delay. The Building Department staff is available to answer any questions you may have in order to speed up the permitting process. Fee schedules vary by project.

Contact person:  Lincoln B. White, Building Official  860-653-3444