Variance requests are usually for relief from setback, lot coverage and building height requirements. The hardship must relate to special circumstances or conditions that are unique to the property and must not be purely economic or self imposed. The Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals cannot change or alter a zoning ordinance but may consider granting a variance from an ordinance upon consideration of the following factors:
An application for a variance is made through the Community & Economic Development Department via iMS and is due on the 5th day of the month. The case will be heard by the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals (ZBAA) the first Tuesday of the month following receipt of the application. Approved variances are valid for a period of 12 months from the date of approval.
Click here to reach a planner to discuss your project before applying. Please submit the variance application via iMS.
Click this icon for a step-by-step guide to applying for a variance
The Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals meets every first Tuesday of each month at 9:00 AM in the City Commission Chamber of City Hall to review variance requests. The Board is made up of seven citizens appointed by the City Commission and is assisted by the staff of the Community & Economic Development Department. The concurring vote of five members is necessary to grant a variance. To apply for the Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals please visit the City Clerk page.
Download and print a copy of the schedule here.
Name | Position | 1st Term Beginning Date | Current Term End Date | Current Tern |
Daniel Sharrett | 1/1/2023 | 6/30/2024 | 1st | |
Emily Breheny | Alternate | 7/1/2023 | 6/30/2026 | 1st |
Gregory Kent | Chair | 4/19/2021 | 4/18/2027 | 2nd |
Jiwa Farrell | Vice-Chair | 5/1/2022 | 4/30/2025 | 1st |
Judith Hatfield | 7/1/2023 | 6/30/2026 | 1st | |
Kristen Tessmer | 8/2/2022 | 8/1/2025 | 1st | |
Thomas Brawner | 1/7/2023 | 6/30/2025 | 1st | |
Tunesia Mayweather | 12/1/2020 | 11/30/2026 | 2nd |
Please send any correspondence to members of the Zoning Board of Adjustments & Appeals
to planningtechnicians@lakelandgov.net or by traditional mail:
(Board Member)
c/o Christelle Burrola
CED-City Hall
228 S Massachusetts Avenue
Lakeland, FL 33801