Variance Requests
Requesting a Variance
Occasionally, when a property owner would like to construct an addition to an existing structure or build a new structure topography, the shape of the lot or some other physical hardship exists that prevents the property owner from conforming to the stated setbacks in the zoning ordinance. Download the Zoning Variance Application.The Board of Zoning Appeals is enabled to consider these variance requests when such requests are needed to allow the property to be used. The board is not enabled to grant variances that are a request of a property owner as a result of property owner preference. Property owners should schedule a meeting with planning staff to determine whether or not the request is eligible for board consideration.
Variance/Board of Zoning Appeals Requests
All applications for the board's consideration must be received at least three weeks prior to the board meeting.A $400.00 review fee is required at the time the application is made. Code requires requests be advertised twice prior to the board meeting. It is the City's policy to place such advertisements in the Bristol Herald Courier. The Community Development and Planning Office will prepare the advertisement. It is the applicant's responsibility to take the advertisement to the Herald Courier and pay for the ad prior to publication. If the advertisement is not placed in the Herald Courier on the dates specified on the ad, the public hearing may be cancelled.
Additionally, code requires that written notifications are sent to adjoining property owners. These notifications will be written and mailed by Community Development and Planning staff. However, the petitioner must (according to code) pay for the mailing.