Full Definition
A variance is a formal request to deviate from a specific numeric zoning standard — typically a setback, height, FAR, or parking requirement. Variances are heard by the Board of Zoning Adjustment (BZA) and are only granted when the applicant demonstrates:
1. ? The property's physical characteristics (shape, size, topography) create a genuine hardship not of the owner's making.
2. ? The hardship was not caused by the property owner.
3. ? The variance grants only the minimum deviation necessary.
4. ? Granting the variance will not harm adjacent properties or the general public.
?
- ? Deviates from a dimensional standard (setback, height, lot coverage). More commonly approved.
- ? Allows a use not permitted in the zone. Very rarely granted; courts often strike them down as rezonings in disguise.
? Buying a property "with variance" means the approval is attached to the specific approval, not the property in perpetuity. Variances typically run with the land, but some have conditions or expiration dates. Always read the variance resolution.
1. ? The property's physical characteristics (shape, size, topography) create a genuine hardship not of the owner's making.
2. ? The hardship was not caused by the property owner.
3. ? The variance grants only the minimum deviation necessary.
4. ? Granting the variance will not harm adjacent properties or the general public.
?
- ? Deviates from a dimensional standard (setback, height, lot coverage). More commonly approved.
- ? Allows a use not permitted in the zone. Very rarely granted; courts often strike them down as rezonings in disguise.
? Buying a property "with variance" means the approval is attached to the specific approval, not the property in perpetuity. Variances typically run with the land, but some have conditions or expiration dates. Always read the variance resolution.
📐 Practical Example
An irregularly-shaped corner lot physically cannot meet the 25-ft rear setback — the BZA may grant a variance reducing it to 10 ft.
How This Appears on ByRightHQ Zone Pages
On every zone detail page, ByRightHQ shows Variance data sourced directly from the county LDC. Terms like this one are underlined with a dotted line — hover to see the definition.
See C-2 Orange County FL → (example zone page)
Also known as:
variance · zoning variance · dimensional variance · area variance · BZA variance