Merrillville, IN · Lake County
Variance of Use Application
This application asks Merrillville’s Board of Zoning Appeals to consider a variance of use from the zoning ordinance and is filed by a petitioner seeking that variance.
- 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 property, its current and proposed uses, and the petitioner’s reasons for requesting a variance of use. It also asks the petitioner to provide findings addressing the effect on public welfare, adjacent properties, property-specific conditions, hardship, and the comprehensive plan. The form is for submission to Merrillville’s Board of Zoning Appeals as part of a variance request; the form states a $200 filing fee that is not refunded if the petition is withdrawn or denied.
Who needs it
A petitioner seeking a variance of use from Merrillville’s zoning ordinance must submit this application and provide findings about the property and proposed use.
Why it needs a notary
The form includes a notarial acknowledgment; the petitioner(s) and owner(s) named above appear before the notary and acknowledge signing the instrument voluntarily.
How to get this notarized
- 1
Download the Application
Get the Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals variance of use application.
- 2
Complete the Form
Enter the property details, proposed and present uses, petitioner and owner information, and requested findings.
- 3
Book an Online Notary
Arrange an online notary appointment for the petitioner(s) and owner(s) who must acknowledge the instrument.
- 4
Sign on Video
Appear before the notary by video and sign as directed during the session.
- 5
Submit to the City
Submit the completed, notarized application and filing fee to Merrillville’s Board of Zoning Appeals.
Preview the form
The blank PDF straight from Merrillville. 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 submit a Merrillville variance of use application?
- Complete the application and findings, arrange notarization for the petitioner(s) and owner(s), then submit it to Merrillville’s Board of Zoning Appeals. The form lists a $200 filing fee.
- Do I need to sign this application before a notary?
- Yes. The form has a notarial acknowledgment stating that the petitioner(s) and owner(s) appear before a notary and acknowledge execution of the instrument as their voluntary act and deed.
- Can I sign the application with an online notary?
- Indiana authorizes remote online notarization for a commissioned online notary through a remote notary public endorsement under IC 33-42-17. Confirm with the city or town if unsure whether it will accept a remotely notarized application.
- Is the filing fee refundable if I withdraw my petition?
- No. The application states that its $200 filing fee will not be refunded if the petition is withdrawn or denied.
Variance of Use Application in other Indiana cities
Each city publishes its own version of this form. Pick the city where you’re filing.