What is a (setback) variation?
In planning vocabulary the word “variation” is used to describe a leeway that may be granted in terms of setback. The rule of thumb is that approval of a setback variation should be rare and only when necessary given it falls within other adopted guidelines. The Architectural Review Committee may minimally vary any setback to achieve an improved relationship between the new construction and structures on adjacent lots and those in the immediate neighborhood. No variation standards shall be approved until notice is give to all adjoining owners and the owners across the street. Variations in setback shall only be granted upon finding that the variation will not compromise privacy expectations on adjacent properties beyond those incurred by adherence to standard setbacks and that the variation is minimal and necessary to achieve conformity with one or more of the following: adopted neighborhood compatibility design guidelines, design considerations contained in subsection 4 of Substandard
