Informal Opinion No.

Paula Cohen, Esq. Deputy Town Attorney, Ramapo

You have informed us that your town is considering raising the fine imposed for violations of local zoning laws. You ask whether a town is authorized to impose a minimum fine and a maximum fine as high as $5,000.

Article 16 of the Town Law authorizes zoning and planning regulations in towns. It is there provided that a violation of the provisions of the article or of any regulation adopted under its authority is an offense, punishable by a fine not exceeding $250 and/or imprisonment for a period not to exceed six months (id., § 268[1]). Each week…