A property owner wants to convert a single-family home into a duplex in an area zoned for single-family residential use. The conversion meets all building codes but violates density requirements. What approval is needed?
Correct Answer
B) Variance from the zoning board
A variance is needed when a property owner wants to deviate from specific zoning requirements (like density) while maintaining the same general use classification. This requires approval from the local zoning board.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
A variance is the correct approval needed because the property owner wants to deviate from specific zoning requirements (density limits) while keeping the residential use classification. Variances are specifically designed for situations where a property owner needs relief from dimensional or numerical standards like density, setbacks, or height requirements. The zoning board of adjustment has the authority to grant variances when certain criteria are met, such as demonstrating hardship or that the variance won't negatively impact the neighborhood. Since building codes are met but zoning density requirements are violated, only a variance can provide the necessary relief.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option C: Building permit only
A special exception permit is used when a use is specifically listed as allowable in the zoning ordinance under certain conditions. Converting to a duplex in single-family zoning typically isn't a listed special exception use.
Option D: Conditional use permit
A building permit alone is insufficient because while the conversion meets building codes, it violates zoning density requirements. Building permits only address construction safety and code compliance, not zoning violations.
Memory Technique
Think 'VARY from the rules' - Variance lets you VARY from specific zoning requirements like density, while keeping the same general use category.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code Chapter 1, Section 116 - Permits; Local zoning ordinances section on variances and zoning board procedures
More Contract Admin Questions
A project experiences a 30-day delay due to unusually severe weather. The contract includes a liquidated damages clause of $1,000 per day for delays. If the weather delay is excusable but not compensable, what liquidated damages apply?
A commercial project requires a total of 12 inspections. The building department charges $85 per inspection for the first 5 inspections, $65 for inspections 6-10, and $45 for any additional inspections. What is the total inspection fee?
What document must be posted at the job site before a Certificate of Occupancy can be issued for a commercial building?
A mixed-use development requires a variance for reduced setbacks. The property is located within 500 feet of a hospital. What additional consideration must be addressed?
A LEED project requires tracking of regional materials. Materials are considered regional if they are extracted, harvested, or recovered, as well as manufactured within what distance of the project site?
An indemnification clause in a construction contract typically requires the contractor to:
As-built drawings are typically required to be submitted:
AIA Document A401 is primarily used for:
A general contractor is building a 12,000 square foot commercial warehouse. The building permit fee is calculated at $8.50 per $1,000 of construction value. If the project value is $2,400,000, what is the building permit fee?
A project has a total duration of 120 days. If the critical path is compressed by 10 days through crashing activities at an additional cost of $25,000, and the daily overhead cost is $800, what is the net cost impact?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
In a cost-plus-fee contract, the contractor is reimbursed for all legitimate project costs plus a predetermined fee. What is the primary risk for the owner in this contract type?
Next Question
In a lump sum contract for $750,000, the contractor discovers that quantities for a major work item were significantly underestimated. The contractor has no basis for a change order. Who typically bears the financial risk?