Paramus Zoning Board cancels October 22 meeting, delays all applications

The Borough of Paramus Zoning Board of Adjustment has canceled its scheduled meeting for Thursday, October 22, 2026. The session was set to begin at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Borough Hall. The board has announced that all applications submitted for that date will be carried over to later meeting dates.

This board handles appeals of decisions made by the Zoning Officer under the local Zoning Ordinance. It also reviews the Zoning Officer’s interpretations of zoning rules. The group meets in person on the second and fourth Thursdays of every month.

The board has the authority to grant two specific types of variances. A "C" variance usually addresses setbacks from property lines. These are approved when a property faces unusual hardship during development or when the change provides a better zoning alternative for the neighborhood.

A "D" variance covers more substantial changes to a property. These include deviations from permitted use, expanding a non-conforming use, or meeting requirements for conditional use. The board also grants "D" variances for increases in floor area ratio, density, or building height that exceed 10 feet or 10 percent.

The board cannot grant a variance if doing so would cause a substantial detriment to the public good. It also cannot approve requests that impair the intent and purpose of the Paramus Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance. "D" variances may be granted for special reasons, undue hardship, or inherently beneficial uses.

Agendas for these meetings are available prior to each session. Minutes are made available after they are approved. The next regular meetings will follow the standard schedule on the second and fourth Thursdays of the month.