Land Use & Zoning
A Rhode Island property owner applies for a variance to build a garage closer to the property line than current setback requirements allow. The zoning board will typically grant a variance only if the owner demonstrates:
AThat neighbors have no objections
BThat the strict application of zoning would cause unnecessary hardship unique to the property✓ Correct
CThat the variance would increase property tax revenue
DThat a neighboring property has a similar structure
Explanation
A variance is granted when the strict application of zoning ordinances would cause unnecessary hardship unique to the property due to its specific characteristics, not merely inconvenience or a desire to increase property value.
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