Variance

A variance is a formal exception that a local zoning board grants, letting an owner or developer depart from a specific requirement of the zoning ordinance. Owners commonly seek one over setbacks, height limits, parking minimums, or lot coverage rules that make a project impractical as written.

Getting a variance means showing hardship and showing that the deviation will not harm surrounding properties or the public interest. The process runs through an application, public hearings, and approval from the zoning authority. A variance is specific to the property, and it runs with the land.