Which of the following is an element of a zoning variance?

• A. Not decrease the value of neighboring land
• B. Show undue hardship of current zoning
• C. Administrative ruling
• D. Decision by zoning board

Answer: (B)

A zoning variance is relief from a zoning rule when applying it strictly would deprive the owner of a reasonable use of the land because of the property’s unique characteristics. The key element is showing undue hardship caused by the current zoning. This hardship must arise from the property itself, not from a desire for profit or convenience, and it must be specific to the property’s conditions (like shape, size, topography, or other peculiar limitations). The variance is then granted by the zoning board as the minimum modification needed to allow that reasonable use, while still protecting the overall purpose of the zoning ordinance. This isn’t about administrative rulings or about ensuring neighbor land values; those aspects aren’t the required element.