Quasi Judicial Handbook: A Guide for Boards Making Development Regulation Decisions

As its name suggests, a quasi-judicial decision is like a court decision because it requires the deciding board to use its judgment in applying general law to a particular land use situation while ensuring the constitutional due process rights of the parties. The Quasi-Judicial Handbook provides guidance to the boards in North Carolina that make these development regulation decisions. It outlines the steps that need to be followed before, during, and after an evidentiary hearing and closely examines the decision-making process itself. Four types of quasi-judicial decisions are explored in detail: variances, special use permits, certificates of appropriateness, and appeals of zoning determinations. Other topics include the role and organization of boards of adjustment and judicial review. This revised edition incorporates statutory and case law updates through July 2023, including the adoption of Chapter 160D in 2019.