Land Use & Zoning

What is a 'variance' in Illinois zoning law?

AA change to the zoning map for an entire district
BAn exception to specific zoning requirements granted for a particular property due to unique hardship✓ Correct
CA temporary permit allowing construction during zoning review
DA penalty assessed for zoning violations

Explanation

A variance is a deviation from the strict application of zoning regulations granted to a specific property based on demonstrable hardship. To obtain a variance in Illinois, the property owner must show that strict application of the zoning code would cause unnecessary hardship due to unique characteristics of the property. Variances run with the land, not the owner.

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