N.Y. Village Law § 7-700: Grant of power

§ 7-700 Grant of power. For the purpose of promoting the health,

safety, morals, or the general welfare of the community, the board of

trustees of a village is hereby empowered, by local law, to regulate and

restrict the height, number of stories and size of buildings and other

structures, the percentage of lot that may be occupied, the size of

yards, courts and other open spaces, the density of population, and the

location and use of buildings, structures and land for trade, industry,

residence or other purposes. As a part of the comprehensive plan and

design, the village board is empowered by local law, to regulate and

restrict certain areas as national historic landmarks, special historic

sites, places and buildings for the purpose of conservation, protection,

enhancement and perpetuation of these places of natural heritage. Such

regulations shall provide that a board of appeals may determine and vary

their application in harmony with the general purpose and intent, and in

accordance with general or specific rules therein contained.