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Zoning Hearing Examiner

Learn more about the Zoning Hearing Examiner.

The Zoning Hearing Examiner

Christopher Graeser, Zoning Hearing Examiner

Function

The Office of the Zoning Hearing Examiner (ZHE) conducts monthly quasi-judicial public hearings regarding special exceptions to the Integrated Development Ordinance.

A special exception is the allowance to develop property in a manner different from what is prescribed by a particular zone category. Special exceptions include variances, conditional uses, and expansion of non-conforming uses. After a special exception is filed, all interested parties are given the opportunity to participate in a public hearing. All requests are given due consideration.

Applicants may file for a special exception using this form and paying the required application fee.

The Zoning Hearing Examiner will render a determination of approval, approval with conditions, or denial within 15 days after the close of the public hearing. Determinations can be appealed to City Council through the Land Use Hearing Officer.

General Meeting Information

The Zoning Hearing Examiner hosts hearings on the third Tuesday of each month in the Plaza del Sol hearing room at 600 2nd NW in downtown Albuquerque. Hearings begin promptly at 9 a.m.

Notice: Free 2-hour parking for Plaza del Sol customers is available on the north side of the building at 600 Second Street NW. This parking lot is monitored by Parking Services - vehicles in the lot for more than 2 hours are subject to fines and or/towing.

Notices

The Planning Department's Online Services System is expanding. Soon, the Development Review Board, Environmental Planning Commission, Zoning Hearing Examiner, and the Landmarks Commission will join other services currently available on the system.

The new online system will allow you to fill out your application, submit required documents, track application progress and pay application fees from any computer or mobile device.

Check back for updates.

Resources

Staff Contact

For questions or more information, call (505) 924-3894.