Do I need a notary for an Administrative Variance Application?

No. The document does not require notarization or mention a sworn attachment; it asks you to send a written request and supporting site plan.

What information should the written request include?

Describe the requested exception and relevant Code section, identify the parcel, explain the circumstances and effects, and provide construction intent and estimated timelines.

What should the site plan show?

Show existing and proposed buildings and improvements on the property and within 50 feet of its boundary, including the requested variance and features that impede compliance.

Sierra County, CA · Sierra County

No notary required

Administrative Variance Application

Property owners can use this application to request an exception to an applicable Sierra County Code provision from the Planning Department.

At a glance

Issued by: City of Sierra County · Sierra County, Sierra County, California
Notarization: Not required: file this form without a notary.
Official source: sierracounty.ca.gov
Blank form: Download the PDF
Catalogued: Oct 5, 2026
Machine-readable: JSON record · about the forms index

What this form is

To request an administrative variance, send the Planning Director a letter or email describing the requested exception, the parcel, and the circumstances supporting the request. Include an explanation of effects on nearby properties and public welfare, a statement of intent to proceed with construction, estimated project timelines, and a detailed site plan showing existing and proposed improvements and the requested variance.

Who needs it

A property owner seeking an exception to an applicable Sierra County Code provision can submit the required written request and supporting site plan.

How to submit it

Mail or email the written request and site plan to the Sierra County Planning Department at P.O. Box 530, 101 Courthouse Square, Downieville, CA 95936, or [email protected].

About notarization

This request is submitted without a notary; it mentions no sworn or notarized attachment, and the applicant sends a written request with the required information.

How to submit this form

1
Download the Application
Download the Administrative Variance Application from this page.
2
Prepare Your Written Request
Write to the Planning Director and include the requested exception, parcel details, supporting explanations, and estimated construction timeline.
3
Attach a Detailed Site Plan
Show existing and proposed improvements on the property and within 50 feet of its boundary, along with the requested variance and constraints.
4
Send Your Request
Mail or email the request and site plan to the Sierra County Planning Department at the address or email listed on the document.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a notary for an Administrative Variance Application?: No. The document does not require notarization or mention a sworn attachment; it asks you to send a written request and supporting site plan.
How do I submit an Administrative Variance Application?: Mail or email your written request and detailed site plan to the Sierra County Planning Department using the address or email listed on the document.
What information should the written request include?: Describe the requested exception and relevant Code section, identify the parcel, explain the circumstances and effects, and provide construction intent and estimated timelines.
What should the site plan show?: Show existing and proposed buildings and improvements on the property and within 50 feet of its boundary, including the requested variance and features that impede compliance.

Need something notarized?

This Administrative Variance Application doesn’t need a notary, but if you have another Sierra County form that does, a commissioned online notary can help.