FAQs  (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q:  What approvals do I need to establish a Home-Based Business in my residence?

A:  There are three categories of home-based business allowed in residential zones: 

• No zoning permit is required for certain low impact “Home Offices/Studios” where no external evidence of the business is visible.  See Section 3.10.A for additional limitations that define this category.

• A Zoning Permit is required for a “Minor Home Occupation” that occupies no more than 25% of the floor area of the residence and employs no more than one non-resident person.  See Section 3.10.B for additional limitations.

• Per Section 3.10.C, a Special Exception approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission is required for a “Major Home Occupation,” which includes any home-based business that does not comply with the restrictions of a “Minor Home Occupation.” Note that no “Major Home Occupation” is allowed in a multi-family residential zone.

Q:  Do the zoning regulations allow Accessory Apartments (aka “Mother-in-Law Apartments”) in single family residential zones?

A:  The zoning regulations allow accessory apartments in the R-3, R-4 and R-5 by Special Exception. See Section 7.4 for applicable requirements and limitations.  Click here for an application form specifically for accessory apartments.

Q:  Can I operate a Bed and Breakfast (B&B) in my home?

A:  Operation of a B & B in an owner-occupied single family home with no more than four guest rooms is an allowable use subject to a Special Exception approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission.  See Section 7.7 of the Zoning Regulations for additional requirements.

Q:  What are the regulations pertaining to the keeping of Dogs in residential districts?

A:  Up to four (4) dogs over the age of eight (8) weeks per dwelling are allowed without a zoning permit. More than four (4) dogs over the age of eight (8) weeks per dwelling are allowed by Special Exception. See Section 3.7 of the zoning regulations for more details.

Q:  Are Chickens and other Poultry allowed in residential districts?

A:  Yes.  The regulations allow for the keeping of poultry for non-commercial purposes. See Section 3.7 of the zoning regulations for details such as restrictions based on the number of birds and the size of the property. Click here for an application form specifically for the keeping of chickens.

Q:  What are the setback and other requirements for Accessory Structures, such as sheds, garages, and swimming pools?

A:  In some cases, bulk requirements for accessory structures differ from the bulk requirements for principle structures.  See Section 3.8 for bulk requirements specifically for accessory structures.  Click here for an application form specifically for accessory structures.

Q:  Do I need a permit to construct or re-locate my Driveway?

A:  Yes.  No access drive or driveway may be constructed or re-located without prior approval by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.  See Section 6.12 for driveway standards applicable in all zoning districts.  Click here for an application form specifically for construction or re-location of a driveway.

Q:  Do I need a permit to place a POD (portable on demand container) on my property?

A:  Yes.  Placement of a POD on a residential property is subject to issuance of a zoning permit by the Zoning Enforcement Officer.  See Section 6.4.C for time limits and other restrictions on PODs.  Click here for an application form specifically for placement of a POD.

Q:  Do I need a permit to store a Travel Trailer, Boat Trailer, or Boat on my property?

A:  No permit is required for storage of a travel trailer, boat trailer or boat on a residential property.  However, certain restrictions apply.  See Sections 6.4.D and 6.4.E for further information.

Q:  Do I need a permit to install a Fence?

A:   Any fence over six feet in height requires a zoning permit and must meet all setback requirements of the underlying zone.

Q:  If my Fence is six feet in height or less, can I erect it right on my property line?

A:  We recommend that you leave enough space on all sides of your fence to allow for maintenance without trespassing on a neighboring property. We also recommend that you have a licensed surveyor mark your property line to ensure that it is clearly defined and accurate.  

Q:  Can my Fence run all the way out to the street?

   A:  No fence should be constructed so as to obstruct visibility at intersections of roads, driveways, or other travel ways.

  Q:  How do I avoid underground utilities when I put up my Fence?

A:  Before you start digging, view the “Call Before You Dig” (CBDY) web site at www.cbyd.com for information on the service they provide.  For information on Town-owned utilities (sewers and storm drains), you may also contact the Town of Branford Engineering Department.  For information on your septic system, contact the East Shore District Health Department (ESDHD).

Q:  Can I erect a Fence in an easement or deed-restricted area?

A:  Some easements, such as certain conservation easements, may prohibit any land clearing or construction, including fences.  Check your deed for a description of the restrictions.

Q:  Which way should the more finished side of the Fence face?

A:  There is no zoning regulation that specifies which way the fence should face.  However, it is generally accepted practice to erect a fence so that the “good” side faces away from your property, toward your neighbors and the street.