Planning and Zoning
Planning Department
The City of Watervliet Planning Department is committed to community-based planning that guides the future of the city. It provides technical planning guidance and assistance to public and private entities in the areas of land use planning, zoning, economic development, as well as public outreach and engagement. The Department implements projects and programs designed to improve the economy, environment, and physical infrastructure of the city.
The department works with existing homeowners to refurbish and bring up to code existing homes within the city through various grant programs. The department also works to secure funding to assist businesses within the city and works closely with Watervliet businesses to continually improve the commercial climate for existing and potential businesses.
While assisting other departments and the community in work on grant applications for housing rehabilitation and economic development through the city the department is responsible for administering grant programs awarded to the city.
Since 2020 the City of Watervliet, through the work of the Planning Department, has been awarded over $36 million in competitive grants from NY State agencies and Federal Grant Programs.
In 2026 the city has over $5 million in grant applications currently pending review and approval through different programs.
Planning Board
The Planning Board is involved in long and short-range planning as well as implementation of the City’s land use regulations. Under the provisions of the Zoning Code, the Planning Board considers applications for site plan review and some special permits and makes recommendations to the Zoning Board of Appeals and the City Council on other zoning and land use matters.
The Planning Board is an appointed 5-member board who serve staggered 3-year terms. One additional person is appointed to serve as an alternate member.
The Board typically meets the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:00 PM at the Watervliet Senior Center. However, that can change due to holidays and member availability. For the most up-to-date meeting schedule please consult the city calendar by clicking here.
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) is a quasi-judicial body that interprets and enforces the city’s zoning ordinances and reviews and acts on appeals of city decisions in accordance with state statute and also reviews and acts on Variance requests. The board’s authority comes from New York State General Law and the City’s Zoning By-laws. Members are appointed by the mayor.
The ZBA has the power to hear and decide petitions for:
- Area Variance
- Use Variances, and
- Appeals from decisions of the Zoning Enforcement Officer/Building Inspector.