FAQs

What is a Variance Permit?

A Variance is a discretionary permit that may be granted by the City Planner or Planning Commission to allow deviation(s) to applicable zoning development standards.  Variances are intended to resolve practical difficulties or physical hardships that may result from the size, shape or dimensions of a site or the location of existing structures thereon from geographic, topographic, or other physical conditions on the site or in the immediate vicinity.  While potentially a factor in the City’s determination, the cost of strict compliance with a regulation(s) to the applicant is not the sole reason for granting a variance.