Land Use & Zoning
What is a 'special exception' under Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code?
AA type of variance granted for economic hardship
BA use permitted in a zone only upon approval by the Zoning Hearing Board after finding specific criteria are met✓ Correct
CA temporary zoning overlay applied during emergency conditions
DAn exception to deed restrictions approved by the neighborhood association
Explanation
A special exception is a use that is permitted in a zoning district, but only upon approval by the Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) after the applicant demonstrates compliance with specific criteria listed in the ordinance. Unlike a variance (which requires hardship), a special exception applicant need only show compliance with the listed criteria. Examples include churches in residential zones, group homes, or drive-through windows in commercial zones.
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