Variances.
Minneapolis Code of Ordinances § 525.460
in effect525.460. - Variances.
(a) Purpose. Variances are intended to provide a means of departure from the literal provisions of the zoning ordinance where practical difficulties exist because of conditions or circumstances unique to an individual property. Nothing in this ordinance shall provide an applicant with any property right or other legal right to compel the city to vary the requirements of this zoning ordinance. In all applications for variance, the applicant shall bear the burden of proof.
(b) Procedure and decision-making body. The board of adjustment shall hold a public hearing as provided in Section 525.220 and make decisions on variances, subject to appeal to the city council as specified in Section 525.320. As specified in this chapter, the city planning commission shall hold the public hearing and make the decision on variances when the application is being reviewed concurrently with other applications considered by the city planning commission.
(c) Required findings or criteria. A variance may be granted from the regulations of the zoning code only when the applicable board, commission, or council establishes that complying with the ordinance poses practical difficulties, making each of the following findings based upon the evidence presented to it in each specific case:
(1) Challenges exist in complying with the ordinance because of circumstances unique to the property. The unique circumstances were not created by persons presently having an interest in the property and are not based on economic considerations alone.
(2) The property owner or authorized applicant proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner that will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the ordinance and the comprehensive plan.
(3) The proposed variance will not alter the essential character of the locality or be injurious to the use or enjoyment of other property in the vicinity. If granted, the proposed variance will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of the general public or of those utilizing the property or nearby properties.
Source: City of Minneapolis, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances, City Charter and Park and Recreation Board Code of Ordinances (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/mn/minneapolis/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=MICOOR_TIT20ZOCO_CH525ADPR_ARTIVAPDEPUHE_525.460VAFetched: 11/2/2026