Unfortunately, obtaining a variance not only costs money, but also it can involve significant time and effort. More importantly, you may not be able to get a variance if you cannot prove that the variance is necessary. You also have to show that there will be no negative impact upon the community or your neighbors. Variances are usually decided by a zoning board of local citizens chosen by the governing body of the municipality. Most communities have setback requirements, which mandate the number of feet between the building area and the property line.
Setbacks provide adequate space between buildings for light, ventilation, access and privacy.
For example, a house usually needs to be about 10-15 feet from the side property boundary. Setbacks for the front and rear are usually much greater. The best way to determine the existing relationship of your house to the property boundaries is to check your home's survey plat. This document should have been given to you when you bought your house. If you do not have one, you can get a copy from your municipality.