Name of Applicant:_______________________________      Phone:_________________

Address of Property:______________________________      Tax Map:______________

Mailing Address:___________________________________________________________

Property Owner (If not applicant, owner shall provide a notarized statement authorizing application):_________________________________________________________________

Describe the general nature of the variance request:
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To the applicant:

The goal of zoning is to provide building and use standards that apply to all properties equally within a given zone. Acquiring an exception or variance to zoning standards is purposely difficult because granting variances to the standards would diminish the value of zoning in protecting neighboring properties. It is important you respond completely to the requests below:

Please complete the variance criteria form. Pay particular attention to the information provided in parentheses ( ).

A detailed plot plan or diagram must be provided showing dimensions and shape of the lot, the size and locations of existing features (buildings, driveways, septic, water, etc), the locations and dimensions of proposed buildings or alterations, and any natural or topographic peculiarities of the lot in question. This plot plan should also include the approximate distances to the nearest structures on abutting properties.

Blueprints, surveys, photos and other documents may be helpful in explaining your variance request and should be included in your application.

I certify that the information contained in this application and its supplement is true and correct.

Date: __________________ Signed ____________________________________

This application and all documentation must be filed with the Code Enforcement Officer no later than two weeks prior to the meeting. A fee must accompany the application to cover the costs of notices and the public hearing. (7 copies)

**PLEASE CONTACT THE CODE OFFICE PRIOR TO SUBMISSION**

USE VARIANCE CRITERIA

In order for a variance to be granted, the applicant must demonstrate to the Board of Appeals that the strict application of the terms of the zoning ordinance would cause undue hardship. There are four criteria, each of which must be met before the ZBA can find that a hardship exists. Please explain how your situation meets each of these criteria listed below, either in the space provided or on a separate sheet:

The land in question can not yield a reasonable return unless the variance is granted. (The applicant must demonstrate financially that he or she will lose all or substantially all of the value and use of the property without a variance.)
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The need for a variance is due to the unique circumstances of the property and not to the general conditions in the neighborhood. (The applicant must show that this property has unique characteristics different from surrounding properties and that these differences are the reason for the need for a variance.)
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The granting of a variance will not alter the essential character of the locality.
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The hardship is not the result of action taken by the owners or a prior owner. (The applicant must demonstrate that the need for a variance is due to the nature of the property, not the action of owners.)
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