(A) A variance shall be granted only when:
(1) It is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this chapter; and
(2) There are practical difficulties or a particular hardship in the strict application of the provisions of this chapter.
(B) The terms “difficulties” and “hardship”, as used in division (A)(2) above, mean that the property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use if used under the conditions allowed by this chapter.
(C) The plight of the applicant for a variance must be due to circumstances unique to the property and not created by the applicant, and it must be related to the property rather than to a personal preference or idiosyncrasy of the applicant.
(D) Economic considerations alone shall not constitute a difficulty or hardship for the purpose of granting a variance if a reasonable use for the property exists under the terms of this chapter.
(E) The variance, if granted, shall not alter the eventual character of the locality.
(F) In granting a variance the City Council may impose further conditions as it deems necessary to ensure compliance with the provisions of this chapter and to protect adjacent properties and the public interest.
(G) The applicant for a variance which, in the opinion of the City Council, may result in a material adverse effect on the environment, may be requested by the Council to demonstrate the nature and extent of the effect before the Council grants the variance.
(2001 Code, § 11.16)