What is a Variance?

Variance means:

1. a relaxation of the terms of this Code where such relaxation will not be contrary to the public interest and where, owing to conditions peculiar to the property and not the result of the actions of the applicant or prior owner, a literal enforcement of the title will result in unnecessary or undue hardship.

2. As used in this title, a variance is authorized only for dimensional requirements related to height, area and size of structure, or size of yards and open spaces. Establishment or expansion of a use otherwise prohibited is not allowed by variance, nor may a variance be granted because of the presence of nonconforming uses in the particular zone or adjoining zone.