Evanston, IL · Cook County

No notary required

Major Variation Application

Property owners or their representatives use this application to request relief from specified Evanston zoning requirements for an eligible project.

What this form is

Use this application to request a major variation from eligible zoning requirements, such as yards and setbacks, height, lot size, lot coverage, parking, or home occupations. The city requires a completed, signed application and supporting materials, including a survey, site plan, non-compliant zoning analysis, proof of ownership, and fee. Applicants describe the project, requested variations, property characteristics, and relevant ownership or control information.

Who needs it

Property owners, lessees, or people with a legal or equitable interest in the property—or their representatives—may apply for a major variation.

How to submit it

Complete the application and submit it with all required documents and plans via email to [email protected]. The city provides fee payment instructions after receiving the application.

About notarization

This application is signed and dated without a notary; it identifies required supporting documents but no attachment or related step that must be notarized or sworn.

How to submit this form

  1. 1

    Download The Application

    Download the Major Variation Application PDF.

  2. 2

    Complete And Sign

    Provide property, applicant, owner, project, and requested variation details; obtain required property owner and applicant signatures.

  3. 3

    Gather Required Documents

    Include the survey, site plan, non-compliant zoning analysis, proof of ownership, fee, and any proposal drawings required for your project.

  4. 4

    Email The Application

    Submit the completed application and required documents and plans via email to [email protected].

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a notary for the Major Variation Application?
No. The application requires signatures and dates but does not require notarization; it identifies no notarized or sworn attachment.
How do I submit the Major Variation Application?
Complete the application and email it with all required documents and plans to [email protected]. The city will provide fee payment instructions after receipt.
What documents must accompany the application?
The application lists a plat of survey, project site plan, non-compliant zoning analysis, proof of ownership, and an application fee. Graphic drawings may also be required for elevated proposals.
Who may apply for a major variation?
The applicant must own, lease, or have a legal or equitable interest in the property, or represent someone who does. All parties with an ownership interest must be identified and sign.

Need something notarized?

This Major Variation Application doesn’t need a notary — but Illinois residents can notarize other documents online with a commissioned online notary.