Adopt Ordinance to Amend City Code Section 117-53 Entitled Variances

Previously, the three factor test that property owners had to pass (or prove) in order to attain a variance was called “undue hardship.” Now the three factor test is called “practical difficulties.” The original test, “undue hardship,” required: (1) that the property cannot be put to a reasonable use if used under the conditions allowed by the official controls (2) the plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the property owner (3) if granted, the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality.

The newly adopted test, “practical difficulties,” requires: (1) that the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by an official control (2) the plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the property owner (3) if granted, the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality.

The key difference between the two versions of the three factor test is located in factor number one. Previously, property owners would only be granted a variance in the event that a property could not be put to a reasonable use. The new version states that variances may be granted if the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner.

As stated, it is the intent of the City of Ramsey to adopt and reflect said changes within city ordinances. Specifically, Section 117-53 Variances.

The proposed ordinance was seen by the Planning Commission on July 7 and introduced to the City Council on July 26.  The ordinance is now eligible for adoption.

Attached to the case is the amending ordinance.

The proposed ordinance is being handled as part of regular staff duties.