The Board of Adjustments may authorize a variance from these regulations when, in its opinion, undue hardship may result from strict compliance. In granting any variance, the Board shall make the findings required below, taking into account the nature of the proposed subdivision, the existing use of land in the vicinity, the number of persons to reside or work in the proposed subidivsion and the probable effect of the proposed subdivision upon traffic conditions in the vicinity. No variance shall be granted unless the Board finds:
(a) Unnecessary hardship would result from the strict application of the regulation. It is not necessary to demonstrate that, in the absence of the variance, no reasonable use can be made of the property.
(b) The hardship results from conditions that are peculiar to the property, such as location, size, or topography. Hardships resulting from personal circumstances, as well as hardships resulting from conditions that are common to the neighborhood or the general public, may not be the basis for granting a variance. A variance may be granted when necessary and appropriate to make a reasonable accommodation under the Federal Fair Housing Act for a person with a disability.
(c) The hardship did not result from actions taken by the applicant or the property owner. The act of purchasing property with knowledge that circumstances exist that may justify the granting of a variance is not a self-created hardship.
(d) The requested variance is consistent with the spirit, purpose, and intent of the regulation, such that public safety is secured and substantial justice is achieved.
Appropriate conditions may be imposed on any variance, provided that the conditions are reasonably related to the variance (G.S. 160D-705).
(Ord. of 4-6-92, No. 190-92; Ord. of 6-21-21, No. 41-21)