Land Use Regulations
An official exception granted by a zoning board that allows a property to deviate from zoning requirements.
A variance is permission to use property in a way that violates current zoning regulations. An area variance allows deviation from dimensional requirements (setbacks, height, lot coverage). A use variance allows a property to be used for a different purpose than the zone permits harder to obtain and requires proof of significant hardship. The variance must not substantially harm neighboring properties.
Exam Tip
Variance = exception for one property. Rezoning = changes the rules for a whole zone. Special use permit = allowed with conditions.
Study Guide
Land Use Regulations
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Practice
NY Real Estate Land Use
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