What is a Variance in zoning terms?

In zoning terms, a variance refers to permission granted by a zoning authority that allows a property owner to deviate from the established requirements of a zoning ordinance. Specifically, this permission is typically given for minor violations of zoning regulations, such as setbacks, height restrictions, or land use types, which may be deemed impractical or unreasonable in certain situations.

The concept of a variance is important because it addresses individual circumstances where strict adherence to zoning laws may cause undue hardship or prevent the utilization of the property. When a property owner applies for a variance, they must often demonstrate that the strict application of the zoning law would result in an unnecessary burden and that the variance would not negatively impact neighboring properties or the public good.

This definition highlights why a variance is a limited exception within zoning regulations—not a full change in land use or a blanket permission to exceed zoning limits, and it certainly does not pertain to tax exemptions. Each of these other options involves different aspects of zoning and property rights that are separate from the specific concept of a variance.