Gadsden, AL · Etowah County
Application for Special Exception
This five-page application requests a zoning special exception or variance and is filed by a property applicant seeking review by Gadsden’s Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment.
- licensed online notary
- ~15 min average
- Notarized PDF emailed
What you’ll need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Webcam-enabled device (laptop or phone)
- This form, ready to upload as a PDF
What this form is
The application identifies the appellant, property location, proposed use, construction or alterations, and reasons the Board should approve the request. Applicants must provide a site plan and preliminary building drawings, and include the $100 legal advertisement fee payable to the City of Gadsden. The form also explains the zoning criteria and hearing process, including notice to property owners within 300 feet of the site.
Who needs it
An applicant seeking a special exception or variance for a property in Gadsden must complete this form and provide the listed supporting materials and fee.
Why it needs a notary
The form carries a sworn-to-before-me jurat, and the appellant must sign the certification before a notary public administers the oath.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Application
Download Gadsden’s Application for Special Exception and review the attached instructions and zoning criteria.
- 2
Fill Out the Application
Enter applicant and owner details, property location, proposed use, construction information, and reasons for the request.
- 3
- 4
Sign on Video
Sign the appellant certification during the online notarization so the notary can administer the oath and complete the jurat.
- 5
Submit to the City
Include the required site plan, preliminary building drawings, and $100 legal advertisement fee when submitting the application to the City of Gadsden.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Gadsden. Look it over, then upload your filled copy to start the notary session.
You’ll need ID and a webcam.
A licensed online notary will join you on video, verify your government-issued ID, witness your signature, and apply their seal. You’ll receive the notarized PDF by email when the session ends.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I get the appellant certification notarized?
- Complete the application, then sign the certification while a commissioned online notary administers the oath and completes the sworn-to-before-me jurat.
- Do I need to submit anything with this application?
- The instructions require a site plan and preliminary drawings of the proposed building. The application also states that a $100 legal advertisement fee, payable to the City of Gadsden, must accompany it.
- Can I use a commissioned online notary for this form?
- Alabama gives an acknowledgment taken outside the state the same effect as one taken inside when it follows the law where it was taken and bears the officer’s official seal. Confirm the notary can complete this form’s oath and jurat.
- Where and when will the request be heard?
- The form provides spaces for the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment hearing dates and times. Check with the city for hearing details; confirm with the city or town if unsure.