House File 652 amends the Iowa Code to grant additional powers to boards of adjustment regarding variances from zoning ordinances. The bill introduces a new subsection in both Section 335.15 and Section 414.12, allowing boards to authorize variances in specific cases where strict enforcement of the ordinance would create practical difficulties for property owners. The variances can pertain to area, dimensional, or other numerical limitations, including minimum lot size, setbacks, and off-street parking, among others.

To obtain a variance, property owners must demonstrate that the difficulties they face are unique to their property and not self-created, and they must show that granting the variance will not significantly alter the character of the surrounding neighborhood. This legislative change aims to ensure that the spirit of the zoning ordinance is upheld while providing flexibility to property owners facing unique challenges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 335.15, 414.12
Enrolled: 335.15, 414.12