Zoning Enforcement 

The Zoning Enforcement Officer (ZEO) enforces the City of Bristol Zoning Regulations and Property Maintenance Ordinances. This includes residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Connecticut law requires that certain projects must comply with the local zoning regulations prior to the issuance of a building permit. The Zoning Office does not enforce property boundaries.

Zoning approval is traditionally issued through a building permit. No building or structure shall be constructed, altered, enlarged or occupied; no Building Permit, including a permit for a building foundation, shall be issued; and no use of an existing building or premises shall be changed until the Zoning Enforcement Officer has issued a Zoning Permit which certifies conformance of the building, structure or use with these Regulations or with a variance granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals. 

The Zoning Enforcement Office is located in the Building Department, second floor of City Hall. 

Properyty Maps:

Property maps are available on the municipal GIS system. These are not to be utilized as a survey and will not have accurate property boundaries. There are several ways to obtain a survey: Building Department records, City Clerk Land Records, Bristol-Burlington Health District (properties with septic), Public Works records, or by hiring a private surveyor. 

CONTACT INFORMATION:

TAG SALES: 

Apply for a Tag Sale Permit

Zoning FAQS:

• How is my property zoned, what uses may be established, and what are the building setbacks?
  Please refer to the municipal City of Bristol Zoning Regulations and GIS. For assistance, contact the Zoning Office at (860) 584-6214..
• What are the restrictions for the placement of sheds in residential yards?
  A minimum of five feet from the side & rear property lines. Sheds cannot be placed in the front yard. 
• What is the maximum height of detached sheds, garages and other types of accessory structures?
  The maximum height is 14'. For a typical 'A' frame, the height is located by determining the mid point between the ridge & eave. 
• Are there any zoning regulations regarding the location & height of fences?
  Yes. Call the Zoning Office at 584-6214 for additional information.
• Can I operate a business from my home?
  A home based business is a regulated use. To determine if it is allowed, apply for a permit through the on-line permitting system. It will be reviewed by the Zoning Enforcement Officer. 
• What are the restrictions on the keeping of domesticated animals?
  No more than four pets over six months of age are allowed. 
• What is considered a "domesticated pet"?
  Any dog, cat, or similar animal can be kept in a home. Horses, sheep, cattle, Llamas or any "hoofed" livestock type of animal are not considered pets and are regulated separately. 
• Are there any restrictions regarding the parking of vehicles on a residential property?
  Yes. Vehicles are prohibited from parking on the required front yard. Only one unregistered motor vehicle is allowed and must be kept in operable condition. The maximum length for a boat parked in a residential zone is 28'.
• Is the displaying of signs regulated by the City of Bristol?
  Yes. Contact the Zoning Office at (860) 584-6214 for more information.  
• Does the zoning officer enforce covenants or deed restrictions in sub-divisions?
  No.

RESOURCES:

Bristol Zoning Commission
File a Blight Complaint
Zoning & Building Fees