Please complete this form fully and DOWNLOAD (print button) to submit in addition to the General Planning and Zoning Application. Applications must be submitted DIGITALLY through the Planning and Zoning goPost portal.
Provide the Land Development Code (LDC) Section(s) reference that the variance is being requested from.
Please describe the project and how it varies from the LDC. (e.g., A side setback variance reduction from the required 10 feet to 7 feet for the purpose of constructing an addition onto an existing home)
Per LDC Section 215.02(B), the Board of Adjustment may only grant a variance when the following standards are determined to be met and proven by competent substantial evidence.
Please review each standard (numbered 1 through 5) on the following pages and provide a justification on how your request meets each standard.
The need for the requested variance arises out of the physical surroundings, shape, topographical conditions, or other physical or environmental conditions that are unique to the specific property involved, and which do not apply generally to property located in the same zoning district. (What are the physical hardships on the property that prevent you from meeting the requirements of the code?)
The conditions or special circumstances peculiar to the property have not been self-created or have resulted from an action by the applicant or with prior knowledge or approval of the applicant. (Is the variance in response to an action or situation in which you created? e.g. You installed a pool at the minimum setbacks, which prevents you from constructing a screen enclosure.)
Literal enforcement of the requirements of the Code will have the effect of denying the applicant reasonable use of the property, or legally conforming buildings or structures, and the requested variance is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable use of the property. (Does the variance result in reasonable use of the property and its structures?)
Granting the variance will not confer any special privilege that is not allowed for other lands, buildings, or structures in the same zoning district; no variance will be granted that extends to the applicant a use of property that is not commonly enjoyed by other persons in similar circumstances. (Would approval of the variance request result in special privilege that is not commonly enjoyed by other properties within the same district?)
Granting the variance will not substantially diminish property values in the surrounding area, substantially interfere with, or injure the rights of others whose property would be affected by the approval of the variance, alter the essential character of the neighborhood, or create a nuisance. (Would approval of this request have an adverse effect on surrounding properties?)
By checking the "I Agree" box below, you agree and acknowledge that 1) this form will not be signed in the sense of a traditional paper document, 2) by signing in this alternate manner, you authorize your signature on this form to be valid and binding to the same force and effect as a handwritten signature, and 3) the information included in and with this form is completely true and correct to the best of your knowledge.
Need help? Give the Planning Department a call at 727-942-5611.
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Tarpon Springs
324 East Pine Street
Phone: 1-727-938-3711