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FINDINGS <br />Zoning Code Section 917.080, Variances: <br />The variance process is intended to provide limited relief from the strict requirements of <br />this ordinance in those cases where the reasonable conditions of a particular requirement <br />will create practical difficulties because of circumstances unique to the property. It is not <br />intended that variances be granted to allow a use not permitted by the underlying zoning <br />district, nor to merely remove inconveniences or financial burdens that the requirements <br />of this ordinance may impose on property owners in general. Variances are intended to <br />address extraordinary, exceptional or unique situations that were not caused by the <br />applicant’s act or omission. Variances may be allowed from restrictions placed on <br />nonconformities. <br />Criteria for Approving a Variance <br />1. A variance may be approved only if these criteria are met: <br />a. The request is in harmony with the purposes and intent of this ordinance. <br />b. The variance is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. <br />c. The applicant can demonstrate that there are “practical difficulties” in complying with the <br />regulation(s) in question. Determination of whether practical difficulties exist shall be based <br />on the following: <br />1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner permitted by <br />this ordinance; <br />2. The plight of the land owner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created <br />by the landowner; <br />3. The variance will maintain the essential character of the locality. <br />2. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sun light <br />for solar energy systems. <br />3. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute a sufficient basis for a Variance if <br />reasonable use for the property exists under the regulation. <br />4. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minnesota Statutes <br />216C, Subd. 14, when in harmony with this ordinance. <br />5. The City Council may impose conditions in the granting of a variance. Such conditions <br />must be directly related to and bear a rough proportionality to the impact created by the <br />variance.