Meet with the Plan Commission staff to determine the type of request you will need and the information you must submit with your application.

Once you have prepared your request, a complete application and a $75.00 filing fee must be submitted. Complete applications must be submitted at least three weeks prior to the meeting date that you would like your request to be considered. (The Board of Zoning Appeals typically meets on the fourth Thursday of the month).

Once your application has been received your request will be placed on the agenda for the next Board of Zoning Appeals meeting. The applicant or a representative is required to present the request at this meeting.

After the application is submitted the Plan Commission staff will obtain the names and addresses of all property owners adjacent to and directly across the street from your property and send a notice of public hearing and post the property with a public hearing sign, at least ten days prior to the Board of Zoning Appeals meeting.

After the request is presented, the Board will allow anyone for or against the request to present their opinion on the request.

Once all comments are heard the Board will consider the facts presented and determine if the request should be approved. In order to approve a variance the Board must be convinced that:

The variance will not be injurious to the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare of the community,

The use and value of the area adjacent to the property included in the variance will not be effected in a substantial adverse manner,

Due to special conditions a literal enforcement of the provisions of the zoning ordinance will result in unnecessary hardship. 

Information required as part of all variance applications:

Copy of Deed for the property.

A location map showing where in the county the property is located and written directions to the site.

A detailed drawing of the property which shows:

Existing buildings, septic lines, fences, and walls, including distances to property lines,

Proposed buildings, septic lines, fences and walls,

Parking and driveway including dimensions and pavement type,

Existing trees and shrubs which are greater than 12 inches in diameter,

A detailed written description of why the variance is needed.

Additional information that may help support your request

Location and types of properties in the area, which have been developed the way in which you would like to develop your property.

Evidence that there are no other alternatives.

Date in which the property was originally developed or subdivided.