Land Use & Zoning
What is a 'variance' in Pennsylvania zoning law?
AA change to the zoning ordinance text applicable to all similar properties
BPermission to deviate from specific zoning requirements for a particular property due to hardship✓ Correct
CA temporary zoning exception granted during construction
DThe difference between assessed value and market value for tax purposes
Explanation
A variance is permission granted by the Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB) to deviate from specific dimensional or use requirements for a particular property. Pennsylvania's Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) requires the applicant to prove unnecessary hardship — that strict application of the zoning ordinance would create an unreasonable burden unique to that property. Variances run with the land, not the owner.
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