Local building codes require any fence to be built at least ten feet in from the property lines. If Tim wants to build a fence right on the property line, he should ask the zoning board for a?

When local building codes specify that a fence must be built a certain distance from property lines, such as ten feet in this scenario, it establishes a legal requirement that must be followed for compliance. If Tim wishes to construct a fence directly on the property line, he would need to obtain special permission to deviate from the standard code. This special permission is referred to as a variance.

A variance allows property owners to request an exception to existing zoning regulations when they can demonstrate that their situation warrants such an exception. In Tim's case, applying for a variance would enable him to legally build the fence closer than the established ten-foot requirement from the property line, provided he can justify the need to do so according to the criteria set by the zoning board.

Other options, while related to construction and property use, do not address the specific need that arises in this situation. A building permit is typically required for new construction projects, but it would not bypass the requirement to adhere to existing building codes. A nonconforming use refers to a use that is allowed to continue despite being incompatible with current zoning laws; this does not apply because Tim is not trying to maintain an existing fence. A certificate of occupancy is issued once a building or renovation is complete and meets all