Buffalo, NY · Erie County
Use Variance Application
Buffalo property owners and applicants use this application to request Zoning Board of Appeals approval for a land use not allowed by zoning regulations.
What this form is
The application asks the Zoning Board of Appeals to authorize a land use that applicable zoning regulations do not allow. Applicants provide owner, project, and property information and explain how the request meets four hardship tests. The city requires the application and supporting materials for a use variance request; the application process also includes project registration, completeness review, a posted notice sign, and a public hearing.
Who needs it
Property owners or applicants seeking approval to use land for a purpose prohibited by the applicable zoning regulations need this application.
How to submit it
Send the completed application and required attachments as PDFs to Room 913 City Hall by USB flash drive or email/file transfer to [email protected]. Hard copies may be sent to Room 913 if electronic submission is not possible; the fee is $350 plus $50 for each additional variance.
About notarization
This document is signed and dated without a notary; it includes an applicant affirmation, but no notarized attachment or related sworn step is specified.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Use Variance Application and review the instructions and required submittals.
- 2
Complete The Form
Provide applicant, property, and project information, then explain how the request meets each of the four variance tests.
- 3
Gather Required Attachments
Prepare the applicable environmental form, site photos, project materials, Notice of Denial, and competent financial evidence.
- 4
Submit To The City
Send the PDF application and attachments to Room 913 City Hall by USB flash drive or email/file transfer; hard copies are also accepted if needed.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a notary for the Use Variance Application?
- No. The document is signed and dated without a notary and includes an applicant affirmation; it specifies no notarized attachment or related sworn step.
- How do I submit the Use Variance Application?
- Send the completed PDF and attachments to Room 913 City Hall by USB flash drive or email/file transfer to [email protected]. Hard copies may be sent if electronic submission is not possible.
- What attachments does the application request?
- As appropriate, include a completed SEQR Short Environmental Assessment Form, site photos, additional project materials, the Notice of Denial, and competent financial evidence.
Need something notarized?
This Use Variance Application doesn’t need a notary — but if you have another Buffalo form that does, a commissioned online notary can help.