How do I request a variance?

File a variance application with Planning and Development Services before filing the development application it supports (Sec. 2.8.2.2). The Zoning Board of Adjustments decides after a noticed public hearing, and you carry the burden of proof. The board applies nine criteria (Sec. 2.8.2.4), centered on special physical circumstances of the land that create an unnecessary hardship not caused by you, not shared by surrounding properties, not merely economic, with no detriment to neighbors, and no more relief than the minimum necessary. A variance can modify dimensional and development standards but never a use standard and never the zoning district itself. If granted, it expires in 90 days unless the development application is filed, extendable for good cause up to one year. San Marcos zoning applies inside the incorporated city limits only; Texas counties do not zone, and ETJ parcels have no municipal zoning. A further Development Code update was adopted on second reading June 16, 2026 but is not yet published, so confirm current standards with the Planning Division at 512-393-8230 before design, purchase, leasing, or permitting decisions.