Variances

Kenosha County Board of Appeals meeting roomWhen

A variance is needed when your proposed structure can not meet the dimensional requirements of the Kenosha County General Zoning and Shoreland / Floodplain Zoning Ordinance (PDF). See Chapter 15 of the Wisconsin Zoning Board Handbook 2nd Edition, 2006 (PDF) for more information on variances.

Why

To make certain that a structure will not be contrary to the public interest, or, owing to special circumstances a literal enforcement of the provisions of the ordinance will result in unnecessary hardship and so that the spirit of the ordinance shall be observed and substantial justice done. To learn more about the Board of Adjustments variance application procedure feel free to watch a video on the topic prepared by the Center for Land Use Education.

How

It is recommended that you meet with county development staff before submitting your application. Staff will review the standards for a variance with you prior to your filling out the application. Refer to the Variance Procedures and Intent Standards located within the variance application document for a step-by-step guide of the process.

You must submit a complete Variance Application (PDF) including a property survey and submit the appropriate fee based upon the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development Fee Schedule (PDF). You will then be forwarded to file your now completed application with your local town. After you complete your meeting(s) with the town, you will then come before the Kenosha County Zoning Board of Adjustments and present your variance for formal action.

Please refer to the Board of Adjustments Hearing Schedule for filing and hearing dates.

Procedures

Time

You can anticipate the Board of Adjustments process will take approximately four to eight weeks from the time of submittal of a complete application packet. Please keep in mind that this process may take longer if your variance application is tabled at the town or county level and/or if additional information becomes necessary.