(a) The Variance procedure is provided pursuant to Section 65906 of the California Government Code to grant relief from zoning provisions when, because of special circumstances applicable to a property, including size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings, the strict application of this Zoning Code deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and under the identical zoning classification.
(b) The City has established two (2) types of Variance applications: Major Variances and Minor Variances. This Chapter addresses Major Variances. Minor Variances are addressed in Chapter 17.140 of this Zoning Code.
(c) Variances shall not be granted to authorize a use or activity on a property which is not otherwise expressly authorized by the provisions of this Zoning Code governing that property. A Variance is not a substitute for a zone change or zone text amendment.