What is the difference between a variance and a Special Exception?
A. Both are actions people may request through the Boards of Adjustment. A variance is typically relief from a setback requirement, height limitation or spacing, and requires that a hardship be shown. A hardship is a condition that is unique to the particular property such that meeting the zoning requirements is not feasible. A hardship cannot be economic or self-imposed. Special Exceptions are specific uses that may be appropriate under particular circumstances on a piece of property. The Boards review requests for these on a case-by-case basis. Both City and County Zoning Codes list allowable Special Exception uses and may be accessed through the INCOG/BOA website http://www.cityoftulsa-boa.org.
