What are Variances?
A variance is granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals or by the City Council in cases which are shown not to be contrary to the public interest if, owing to special conditions, where a literal enforcement of the provisions of an ordinance or regulation will result in an undue hardship. A hardship must be proven in order to have a variance granted. A true hardship applies to a situation when a landowner in unable to comply with the regulations because of some unique or peculiar aspect of a property itself. A hardship is not considered a personal need or wish of the landowner, a hardship only applies to the quality of the property itself. A hardship cannot be self-created.
Some types of variances are granted by City Council and some types are granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals.
Types of Variances
*The following information applies to the process for submitting applications for unified signage plans, fence exceptions, parking exceptions, and alcohol variances: