A variance is an exception to the rules that are set forth in the Douglas County Zoning Ordinance. A variance is necessary when a landowner wishes to build or develop his/her property and the rules of the ordinance prohibit him/her from doing so. More information
about Variances can be found in Section VII of the Ordinance
CAN ANYONE GET A VARIANCE?
No. The courts have said that the applicant has a "heavy burden of proof" to show that there are no other options available to them and that following the ordinance would cause a "hardship" to the property owner.
WHAT IS A FINDING OF FACT?
“Findings of fact" are six (6) questions asked about the property in question. It must be filled out at the time you apply for the variance. This is one of the determining factors in deciding if you have a "hardship" on this property. The "findings of fact" is given to the Board
of Adjustments for their review.
WHO DECIDES IF I WILL GET A VARIANCE?
The decision is made at a public hearing, by the Board of Adjustments, on whether a "hardship" has been demonstrated. The information provided by the applicant will help determine whether a "hardship" has been demonstrated.
WHO IS THE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT?
The Board of Adjustment is five (5) members appointed by the County Board of Commissioners. The current Board of Adjustment members are
as follows:
District 1
Jerry Johnson
320-965-2387
District 2
Daniel (Dan) New
320-763-4085
District 3
Brian Niehoff
320-859-3402
District 4
Jeff Oberg
763-239-4580
District 5
Les Zimmerman
320-762-0668