Tempe, AZ · Maricopa County
Variance Application
Property owners and applicants use this application to request a variance from Tempe development standards based on special circumstances affecting a property.
What this form is
Use this application to request a deviation from development standards when special circumstances affecting a property may make strict application of the zoning rules deprive it of privileges enjoyed by comparable properties. The application checklist requires a planning application, an affidavit of public notification, a letter explaining the request, context photos, a public involvement plan, and plans; some additional items depend on the project.
Who needs it
Property owners or applicants seeking a variance from development standards in Tempe should submit this application with the required supporting materials.
How to submit it
Submit the application and all attachments online through the Tempe Citizen Access Portal. The application fee is invoiced and made available for payment within one business day of initial submittal.
About notarization
This application is signed without a notary; it requires an Affidavit of Public Notification, but gives no notarization instructions for that attachment.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Variance Application PDF and review its application and submittal checklists.
- 2
Complete The Application
Provide the planning application and project information, including property owner authorization as required.
- 3
Gather Required Attachments
Prepare the affidavit, letter of explanation, context photos, Public Involvement Plan, plans, and any additional items required for the project.
- 4
Submit Through The Portal
Submit the application and all attachments through the Tempe Citizen Access Portal.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a notary for the Tempe Variance Application?
- No. This application is signed without a notary. It requires an Affidavit of Public Notification, but gives no notarization instructions for that attachment.
- How do I submit the Tempe Variance Application?
- Submit the application and all attachments through the Tempe Citizen Access Portal. The fee is invoiced and made available for payment within one business day of initial submittal.
- What materials are required with the application?
- The checklist calls for a planning application, an Affidavit of Public Notification, a letter of explanation, context photos, a Public Involvement Plan, and plans. Additional items may depend on the project.
- What should the letter of explanation include?
- It should describe the project goals and request, identify the specific variance and property circumstances, and explain how the request meets the listed variance criteria.
Need something notarized?
This Variance Application doesn’t need a notary — but if you have another Tempe form that does, a commissioned online notary can help.