MEMBER ALERT

Nationwide Planning & Zoning Board Applicant Scam

In our November/December Talk of the Towns & Topics issue, we shared information about a nationwide email scam targeting applicants before planning and zoning boards. Similar incidents have been reported across the country in recent weeks, including in New Jersey, Michigan, California, Florida, and Illinois, with at least one applicant wiring thousands of dollars to scammers, and has now hit New York municipalities.

How the Scam Works: Scammers obtain applicant email addresses and project details from application materials posted on municipal websites. They then send fraudulent emails, often from addresses ending in "@usa.com," demanding payment of fees or escrow deposits (typically $4,000-$5,000) via wire transfer.  The fake invoices often include municipal logos and accurate project information to appear legitimate.
Recent Examples:
• Eaton County, MI warning (December 3, 2025)
• East Brunswick, NJ alert (November 2025)
• Eureka, CA - victim wired money (November 2025)

Recommended Actions for Towns:
1. Redact Email Addresses – When posting application materials online, redact or omit applicant email addresses and other contact information that is not necessary for public notice.
2. Post a Warning to the Town’s Website – Add a banner or notice to your website clarifying your payment procedures. Sample language: "[Town Name] will never request payments via email links or wire transfer. All fees for planning and zoning board applications must be paid in person at Town Hall or through our official payment portal at [link]. Official town emails will only come from @[yourtown].gov addresses. If you receive an email requesting payment, contact the Town Clerk's office at [phone] before responding."
3. Establish Clear Payment Protocols – Ensure your boards have a documented procedure for collecting fees and communicating payment requirements to applicants, and train staff accordingly.
4. Consider Notifying Current Applicants – If you have pending applications, consider proactively notifying those applicants that the town will never request payments via email or wire transfer. 
If an Applicant Reports a Scam: Advise them to report it to local law enforcement and the NYS Attorney General's office at 1-800-771-7755 or online at ag.ny.gov/consumer-frauds-bureau.
For questions, contact NYAOT at [email protected]