Variances

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A Variance is a legal exception or modification to a specific zoning or building regulation granted by a local government authority. This typically occurs when a property owner or business wanted to use or develop their property in a way that doesn't fully comply with existing zoning laws but can demonstrate a valid reason for the exception.

To start; we have to look at the zoning and building codes. Municipalities establish zoning codes that determine the land use, like size, height, or placement of the buildings. These codes are designed to keep orderly development, maintain the property values, and protect the welfare.

If a property owner finds that they cannot fully comply with the codes, like wanting a sign that is larger than allowed, they can apply for variance. The owner must be able to demonstrate that the zoning regulation creates a practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship that prevents reasonable use of the property.

Then we move to the approval process; the local zoning/planning board will review the request. They will consider factors like if the variance would negatively impact neighboring properties, whether it's unique to the property area, and if granting the variance is consistent with the overall goals of the zoning code.

If approved, the property owner can proceed with the project, but still within the limits of the specified variance. Do note, the variance the property owner is approved on only applies to this property owner.