(A)

Unified development review authorizes the planning board, rather than the zoning board of review, to approve variances, special use permits, and aquifer protection permits that are requested concurrently with an application for approval of a subdivision, a land development project, or development plan review.

(B)

An applicant requests unified development review by submitting an application form for zoning relief with the application for subdivision approval, land development project approval, or development plan review. The procedure for approval under unified development review is in section 3.3 of the land development and subdivision regulations.

(C)

When considering an application for zoning relief, the planning board is bound by the same legal requirements and the same criteria for relief that would apply to the zoning board of review's consideration of the application. The planning board shall conduct a public hearing, shall take testimony under oath, and shall make findings of fact and conclusions of law. The planning board's decision on the zoning relief shall be conditional on its approval of the land development project.

(D)

An appeal from a decision by the planning board on a variance, a special use permit, or an aquifer protection permit may be taken pursuant to R.I.G.L. § 45-23-71.

(Ch. 292, §(Exh. X), 12-4-23)