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- 1). Analyze your building plans. Is there any reasonable way you can revise the plan so that it conforms to the zoning? Variances are generally given on the basis of hardship. If your plans can easily be modified to eliminate the violation, your request will probably be denied.
- 2). Obtain a survey of the lot showing the proposed building (or expansion) and setbacks required by the zoning.
- 3). Check with the town for the exact procedure to file for the variance. This can vary somewhat from location to location.
- 4). File the survey along with architectural plans and a brief written statement describing why the variance is required. Check with the town about how many copies of the filing to provide and to obtain any form that must be filled out and returned.
- 5). Notify all property owners within the required distance of the date of the public meeting and the relief that you are seeking. Check with the town to confirm the required distance (usually 200 feet). If in doubt about whether a house is within the distance, include the owners on the list. Send all notifications via certified mail and have the return receipts available at the hearing.
- 6). At the hearing, explain the reasons for needing the variance. Be prepared to answer any questions posed by board members or the public.
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