Zoning is a government-imposed restrictions on the use that may be made of land.
For example, a municipality may adopt a zoning ordinance that permits the construction of only single-family houses in a designated portion of the city. Zoning is used to plan future community growth and to ensure reasonable, orderly development. A variance is an exception granted by an administrative agency such as a zoning board that permits a use of property that is inconsistent with an existing zoning ordinance.
This form is a generic example that may be referred to when preparing such a form for your particular community. It is for illustrative purposes only. Local laws should be consulted to determine any specific requirements for such a form in a particular jurisdiction.
Title: Guam Application to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction: A Detailed Description Introduction: When seeking a variance from zoning restrictions in Guam, individuals or organizations may need to submit an application to the local Zoning Board. This application is crucial to outlining the specific circumstances that warrant a departure from the established zoning regulations. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of what a Guam Application to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction entails, including its significance, required contents, and potential types of variances. 1. Significance of a Guam Application for Variance: Zoning regulations in Guam are designed to manage land use, promote order, and protect the welfare of the community. However, there are instances where strict adherence to these regulations can cause hardships or prevent desired land development. A variance application serves as a mechanism for requesting relief from certain zoning provisions, acknowledging the unique circumstances that justify such exceptions. 2. Contents of a Guam Application for Variance: To ensure its effectiveness, a Guam Application for Variance From Zoning Restriction should include the following key components: a. Personal Information: Provide the applicant's name, address, contact details, and identification information. b. Site Description: Offer a detailed description of the property subject to the variance request, including its location, dimensions, and current use. c. Zoning Restrictions: Identify the specific zoning regulations from which variance is sought, explicitly stating the section or provision numbers. d. Reason for Variance: Clearly articulate the hardship or unique circumstances that necessitate relief from the zoning restriction. This may include aspects such as topography, neighboring properties, environmental factors, or economic considerations. e. Proposed Use: Describe the intended use or development that requires the variance, outlining how it aligns with the overall goals of the zoning ordinance and will not adversely affect the neighborhood. f. Supporting Documentation: Include any relevant plans, surveys, studies, or reports that provide evidence supporting the variance request. 3. Types of Variances in Guam: There are different types of variances that may be applied for in Guam, depending on the nature of the zoning restriction being challenged. These include: a. Use Variance: A use variance is sought when an applicant wishes to use the property for purposes not permitted under the existing zoning regulations. b. Area Variance: An area variance is requested to deviate from restrictions related to setbacks, building height, lot area, or density requirements. c. Height Variance: A height variance enables an applicant to surpass the prescribed limits for vertical construction outlined in the zoning ordinance. d. Special-Use Variance: A special-use variance allows for the establishment of specific land uses deemed desirable by the community, even though they may not comply with the current zoning regulations. Conclusion: When seeking a variance from zoning restrictions in Guam, submitting a well-prepared application to the local Zoning Board is crucial. By providing comprehensive information about the property, details about the requested variance, and supporting evidence, applicants increase their chances of gaining approval. Understanding the various types of variances available and their specific criteria can help applicants tailor their applications appropriately to enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome.
