EstatePass
Land Use ControlsZoning VariancesMEDIUM

What is a zoning variance?

Correct Answer

B) An exception granted to a specific property due to unique hardship

A variance is relief granted by a local board of appeals (in Maine, typically the Zoning Board of Appeals) that allows a specific property owner to deviate from strict zoning requirements because literal enforcement would cause undue hardship unique to that property. A variance differs from a special exception (conditional use permit), which is a use already permitted by the zoning ordinance when specified conditions are met. Variances run with the land, not the owner.

Answer Options
A
A change applied to an entire zoning district
B
An exception granted to a specific property due to unique hardship
C
Permission to build without obtaining any building permits
D
Authorization to conduct any type of business in any zone

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Deep Analysis of This Land Use Controls Question

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Background Knowledge for Land Use Controls

Sign up free to unlock full analysis
Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Real World Application in Land Use Controls

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Common Mistakes to Avoid on Land Use Controls Questions

Sign up free to unlock full analysis

Related Topics & Key Terms

Related Topics:

special exception / conditional use permitnonconforming userezoningZoning Board of Appealshardship standard

Key Terms:

varianceZoning Board of Appealsundue hardshipzoning reliefarea varianceuse variance
Was this explanation helpful?

More Land Use Controls Questions

People Also Study

Practice More Questions

Access 2,000+ practice questions and pass your real estate exam.

Start Practicing