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.
Maine Application to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction is a legal document used by property owners or developers in the state of Maine to request a variance from zoning restrictions imposed by local zoning ordinances. Zoning restrictions are rules and regulations that dictate how land and buildings can be used in a specific area, such as residential, commercial, or industrial zones. When a property owner wants to use their land for a purpose that is not specifically allowed in the zoning regulations, they must submit an application to the local Zoning Board for a variance. A variance is a special permission granted to deviate from the strict requirements of the zoning ordinance due to unique circumstances or hardships related to the property. The Maine Application to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction typically includes the following information: 1. Property Details: The application should provide the property's address, tax map and lot number, deed information, and acreage. 2. Applicant Information: The application should include the full name, contact information, and relationship to the property of the applicant. If the applicant is not the owner, they should provide a letter of authorization from the owner. 3. Variance Request: The specific zoning restriction that the applicant wants to deviate from should be clearly stated, along with the reasons why the variance is necessary and any hardships associated with complying with the zoning regulations. 4. Description of the Proposed Use: The application should provide a detailed description of the proposed use of the property and how it differs from the permitted uses defined in the zoning regulations. 5. Justification for the Variance: The applicant should explain how the variance would not create any adverse impacts on neighboring properties or the surrounding community. They should highlight any benefits that the proposed use would bring to the area. 6. Supporting Documents: The application should include supporting information or documents, such as site plans, architectural drawings, photographs, or expert opinions, to further illustrate the need for the variance. 7. Notification of Butters: The applicant is usually required to notify butters (neighbors) within a specified radius of the property about the variance request. Proof of notification should be included with the application. Different types of Maine Applications to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction may include: 1. Use Variance: This type of variance is sought when the property owner wants to use their land for a purpose that is not permitted in the specific zoning district. For example, if a property owner wants to establish a retail store in an area designated for residential use only. 2. Area or Dimensional Variance: This variance applies when the property owner wants to deviate from specific dimensional requirements, such as setback distances, maximum building height, or lot coverage limits. 3. Conditional Use Variance: This type of variance is applicable when the proposed use is allowed in the zoning district but requires additional conditions or criteria specified in the zoning regulations. In conclusion, the Maine Application to a Zoning Board for Variance From Zoning Restriction is an important legal document that property owners or developers used to request a deviation from zoning regulations. By providing detailed information about the property, proposed use, and justification for the variance, the applicant aims to convince the Zoning Board that granting the variance would be in the best interest of the community and would not cause any adverse impacts on neighboring properties.
