Georgia Real Estate Salesperson Practice Exam

What is one of the outcomes if a property is granted a variance?

1. The property must remain vacant for a year

2. The property can exceed local zoning restrictions for the specific case

3. The property must follow all zoning laws without exemptions

4. The property owner loses the right to appeal in the future

The correct answer is: The property can exceed local zoning restrictions for the specific case

When a property is granted a variance, it allows the property owner to deviate from the established zoning regulations that apply to the property. This means that for the specific case at hand, the property can operate under conditions that are different from the standard zoning laws. The rationale behind this is to provide flexibility in zoning so that property owners can make use of their land in a way that might not conform to conventional zoning rules but is reasonable given the unique circumstances of their property. Variances are particularly useful in cases where strict application of zoning laws would create undue hardship for the property owner. For example, if a property is situated in a way that prevents it from being developed in alignment with current zoning regulations, a variance might allow for modifications such as building height, setback requirements, or land use that differ from the norm. Other options do not accurately reflect the implications of a variance. Properties that receive a variance do not have to remain vacant; they have additional rights, not restrictions imposed on their occupancy. Additionally, a property that has been granted a variance would not be obligated to follow all zoning laws without exemptions; rather, the granting of a variance indicates that specific zoning laws have been modified for that property. The option regarding losing the right to appeal in the