apply for a variance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "apply for a variance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or administrative contexts when someone is seeking permission to deviate from zoning laws or regulations. Example: "The property owner decided to apply for a variance to build a larger structure than what the zoning laws allowed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Ceili's already had the maximum allowable signage and would have had to apply for a variance for the flag.

The New York Times

Help her apply for a variance that allows her daughter to attend an out-of-district school.

The New York Times - Magazine

Current zoning guidelines for the 382-acre site allow approximately 190 units, requiring the developer to apply for a variance to build the 1,375 units proposed.

The New York Times

Paul Freitag, the director of development for the Jonathan Rose Companies, a developer of major green projects in the city, said the new rules in many cases would eliminate the need to apply for a variance to add special features.

The New York Times

And if they did not, they may be able to help you apply for a variance in the usage of the money.

Science Magazine

WASHINGTON -- Good news for Arlington dog owners: the city's health department now lets restaurants apply for a variance to allow dogs in outdoor dining areas.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mr. Mitzner said he was considering applying for a variance on that building, too.

The New York Times

When he applied for a variance to build his house and discovered the many restrictions the village imposed, rather than being put off he was more impressed.

The New York Times

The next year he applied for a variance to build two additional houses at the rear of the two-acre L-shaped lot but was turned down by the Summit zoning board after protests from the neighbors.

The New York Times

"So we applied for a variance". Mr. Lupo's son, Tony, told the town Zoning Board of Appeals that the sign served the purpose of telling people that the pizza parlor was open.

The New York Times

Mr. Owen, meanwhile, applied for a variance to the city's leash law, allowing Blue to keep on living as he always had, leash-free, which is what prompted Wednesday's meeting.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "apply for a variance", ensure you clearly state the specific regulation from which you are seeking a deviation.

Common error

Avoid simply stating you want to "apply for a variance" without providing a detailed and compelling justification for why the variance is necessary and how it will not negatively impact the surrounding area.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "apply for a variance" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of formally requesting an exception to a rule or regulation, typically in the context of zoning or building codes. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "apply for a variance" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of formally requesting an exception to existing regulations. It is considered grammatically correct by Ludwig AI and is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts. While not overly common, it is a recognized term within legal and administrative fields. When using this phrase, remember to provide a clear and compelling justification for the requested deviation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Request a variance

Replaces "apply" with the more direct synonym "request".

Seek a variance

Uses "seek" to emphasize the act of looking for an exception.

Petition for a variance

Suggests a more formal or legal approach to the request.

File for a variance

Highlights the procedural aspect of submitting the request.

Apply for an exception

Broadens the scope to any kind of exception, not just a variance.

Submit a variance application

Focuses on the submission of the formal application document.

Ask for a variance

Simplifies the phrasing to a basic request.

Put in for a variance

Uses a more colloquial expression for applying.

Make an application for a variance

Adds slight formality, emphasizing the 'application' as a document.

Appeal for a variance

Implicates that the request could be controversial or contested.

FAQs

What does it mean to "apply for a variance"?

To "apply for a variance" means to formally request permission to deviate from current zoning regulations or building codes. This often involves submitting an application to a local zoning board or similar authority.

What is the difference between "apply for a variance" and "request a variance"?

The phrases "apply for a variance" and "request a variance" are largely synonymous. "Apply" is more formal, while "request" is a more general term for asking for something.

When might someone need to "apply for a variance"?

Someone might need to "apply for a variance" if they want to build a structure that doesn't meet current zoning requirements, such as exceeding height restrictions or building closer to property lines than allowed.

What is the process for "applying for a variance"?

The process typically involves submitting a formal application, providing supporting documentation, attending a hearing with the zoning board, and receiving a decision from the board. Legal representation may be required.