A variance is permission granted to develop property in a way that doesn't comply with specific zoning regulations, without changing the underlying zoning. Variances address situations where strict application of rules creates hardship or practical difficulties for specific properties. Common variances involve setbacks, lot coverage, height, or parking requirements. Variance applications go to committees of adjustment or similar bodies that evaluate whether criteria for granting variances are met—typically involving hardship, minor nature, and appropriateness given surrounding uses. Variances provide flexibility in zoning systems that cannot anticipate every situation. However, excessive variance granting can undermine zoning integrity. Variances are property-specific and don't change rules for other properties or set precedents.