a long-term approval, which could be considered in the future
a specific authoization of a proposed land use in a given zoining district, but only upon showing that certain conditions can be met
a use permitted within a zoning district, but subject to certain, specific conditions
a use that is allowed in a zoning district, provided the use complies with a specified set of requirements and is found compatible with the surrounding neighborhood
Uses, which by their nature, can have an undue impact upon or can be incompatible with other land uses and therefore need a site specific review. After review, such uses may be allowed to locate within given designated zoning districts if appropriate and only under special controls, limitations, and regulations. A special exception is subject to public hearings by the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors with approval by the Board of Supervisors; a special permit requires a public hearing and approval by the Board of Zoning Appeals. Unlike proffers which are voluntary, the Board of Supervisors or BZA may impose reasonable conditions to assure, for example, compatibility and safety. See Article 8, Special Permits and Article 9, Special Exceptions, of the Zoning Ordinance.
An activity or land use that represents an exception to the Orange County Code of Ordinances (zoning regulations) and permits more intense use. Examples are permission to allow for a Family Lot Provision in an A-2 (agricultural) zone or to expand religious use by constructing a new 5,000 square foot auditorium in an R-1 (single family) zone. Special exceptions may be approved by the Board of Zoning Adjustment.
A use or structure that is permitted in a zoning district after an assessment process, with legislative approval granted by the Board of Supervisors. The approval process requires that the use or structure complies with all the conditions and standards specified in the Zoning Ordinance and/or imposed by the Board of Zoning Appeals and/or the Board of Supervisors at their discretion.
A use permitted in a zoning district only upon showing that such use in a specified location will comply with all the conditions and standards specified in the Zoning Ordinance and/or imposed by the Board of Zoning Appeals and/or the Board of Supervisors at their discretion.