The Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board (PZAB) was established by the Winder City Council to provide residents and stakeholders with a clear, transparent, and responsive advisory body to guide growth, land use decisions, zoning matters, and appeals.

The PZAB shall become effective March 1, 2026. To apply for consideration of appointment, please submit an application online.

Authority & Role

The PZAB has been granted authority and responsibility through a series of amendments to the City of Winder Code of Ordinances and Zoning Ordinance.

Its core responsibilities include recommendations on:

• Chapter 3 (Alcohol Licenses)
• Chapter 9 (Flood Damage Prevention Variances)
• Chapter 12 (Housing Permits and Appeals)
• Chapter 24 (Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control, as applicable)
• Chapter 28 (Subdivisions, as applicable)
• Chapter 29 (Telecommunications, as applicable)
• Appendix A of the Zoning Ordinance (as applicable)

PZAB has final decision authority on:

• Chapter 14 (Mobile Homes)
• Chapter 19 (Historic Preservation Commission Appeals)
• Chapters 24, 28, and 29 (as applicable)
• Appendix A of the Zoning Ordinance (as applicable)

The final decision-making authority in most cases remains with the Mayor and City Council.

Composition of the Board

• The Planning, Zoning, and Appeals Board is composed of seven (7) members.
• Each Board member's term shall coincide with the Council member or Mayor who appointed the Board member.
• Board members must be residents of the City of Winder for at least one (1) year and demonstrate a commitment to responsible growth and community development.
• Members will be compensated with a nominal amount as may be provided or established from time to time by the Mayor and City Council.

The Board meets monthly on a set calendar schedule. Meetings are open to the public and provide an opportunity for citizens, developers, and property owners to participate in local land use decisions.

All meeting agendas and minutes are posted on the City’s website.

How to Submit a Request

Applications for zoning changes, variances, subdivisions, or appeals must be submitted through Planning and Development Services Department. Submission deadlines and requirements are outlined on the Planning and Development Services Department webpage.