How do I request a variance?

Small dimensional variances (under 36 inches to height or yard setbacks on an existing structure) can be decided administratively by the Zoning Administrator; variances of 6 inches or less can be approved at the Administrator's discretion without a formal application. All other variances go to the Planning and Zoning Board, which must decide within 60 days of closing its public hearing and needs 5 affirmative votes to approve. To grant any variance, the reviewing body must find special conditions peculiar to the property that are not self-created, that the variance will not confer a special privilege, that literal code enforcement would cause unnecessary and undue hardship, and that the variance granted is the minimum needed for reasonable use. Variances apply only to dimensional standards (height, area, size, yard, setback, lot size); use variances are prohibited outright. A decision by the Zoning Administrator or Planning and Zoning Board may be appealed to the Board of Zoning Appeals within 15 days. Start an application with the Planning and Zoning Department at 772-871-5212.