If a landowner wishes to use their property for a purpose beyond its current permitted use, which of the following may they request?

When a landowner wants to utilize their property for purposes that are not currently allowed under the existing zoning regulations, they can seek either a zone variance or a zone change.

A zone change involves altering the zoning classification of the property, allowing for a different type of use that aligns with the owner's new plans. This could mean changing from residential to commercial, for example, depending on what the owner intends to do.

On the other hand, a zone variance permits the landowner to deviate from specific zoning requirements without changing the zoning classification entirely. For instance, if zoning laws restrict building height or setbacks, a variance might allow the owner to build taller or closer to the property line.

Both options provide a pathway for the landowner to legally pursue new uses for their property while still adhering to some level of regulatory oversight. A re-assessment of property value does not inherently grant the right to change use and site plan approval pertains to specific project details rather than permission for a use change.