Geneva, NY · Ontario County
Area Variance Application
Property owners or their representatives use this application to request a Geneva Zoning Board of Appeals area variance from zoning dimensional or physical requirements.
What this form is
The application requests permission to use property in a way that does not meet the City’s zoning dimensional or physical requirements. Property owners must apply before work starts or a building permit is issued, and provide a written hardship statement, project drawings, survey maps, proof of ownership, an environmental assessment form, and the stated fee. The Zoning Board of Appeals considers the request and may impose conditions.
Who needs it
Property owners seeking an area variance, or their designated representatives, must complete and present the application to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
How to submit it
Submit seven collated and stapled copies of the application and required documents, with the $150 fee, to the Superintendent of Building & Zoning before the deadline listed on the city website schedule.
About notarization
This document is signed and dated by the property owner without a notary; the application does not mention any notarized or sworn attachment.
How to submit this form
- 1
Download The Application
Download the Area Variance Application from the city’s forms page.
- 2
Complete The Application
Provide the property owner and property details, summarize the variance request, and sign and date the form.
- 3
Gather Required Documents
Prepare the hardship statement, project drawings, survey maps, proof of ownership, and environmental assessment form.
- 4
Prepare Copies And Fee
Make seven copies of the application and required documents, collate and staple them, and include the $150 fee.
- 5
Submit Before The Deadline
Deliver the materials to the Superintendent of Building & Zoning before the deadline listed on the city website schedule.
Frequently asked questions
- Do I need a notary for the Area Variance Application?
- No. The property owner signs and dates the application without a notary. The document does not identify any notarized or sworn attachment.
- How do I submit the Area Variance Application?
- Submit seven collated and stapled copies of the application and required documents, along with the $150 fee, to the Superintendent of Building & Zoning before the deadline listed on the city website schedule.
- What documents must accompany the application?
- The application lists a written statement of hardship, project drawings, property survey maps, legal proof of ownership, and a New York State Environmental Assessment Form. Submit seven copies of the application and required documents.
- When should I apply for an area variance?
- Apply before starting work or before a building permit is issued. The application says to check the city website schedule for the specific application deadline.